Which is the Most populated State in India?

All over the world, everyone knows that India is the most populated country in the world. According to Worldometers, India consists of approximately 1,476,625,576 in 2026. India comprises 28 states and 8 union territories. Every state has an account of its own population. But, do you know which is the most populated state in India? Many people think it is Bihar, and many people also might think that the answer is Maharashtra. But both these answers are wrong. The correct answer is Uttar Pradesh, which is considered the most populated state in India. So, let’s explore in detail and know more about Uttar Pradesh, the most populated state in India, with its interesting facts.

Which is the Most populated State in India?

Uttar Pradesh (UP) is the most populated state in India. As per the NITI Aayog, Census population projections for 2022-23, the population of Uttar Pradesh is around 235.7 million, which is approximately 23.57 crore, and represents 16.5 per cent of India’s total population, which is making Uttar Pradesh the most populated state in India. In 2022-23, the population growth rate of Uttar Pradesh has seen 1 per cent growth, which is higher than India’s national average population growth rate of  0.9 per cent.

In India, after Uttar Pradesh, Bihar is the second most populated state in India, with a population of around 133 million, approximately 13.28 crore, and it has surpassed Maharashtra, which is the third most populous state in India.

Top 5 Most Populated States in India (2026)

Key Facts About Uttar Pradesh Population

• Population in 2026: Around 24.35 crore

• Share of India's population: About 17%

• Total area: 243,286 square km

• Number of districts: 75

• Literacy rate: About 67.7% (as per Census 2011)

• Capital city: Lucknow

• Uttar Pradesh Border States: 8 States and 1 UT, which are 

• Uttarakhand: Borders to the north.

• Himachal Pradesh: Borders to the far north.

• Haryana: Borders to the west.

• Delhi (Union Territory): Borders to the west.

• Rajasthan: Borders to the west and southwest.

• Madhya Pradesh: Borders to the south (shares the longest boundary).

• Chhattisgarh: Borders to the south.

• Jharkhand: Borders to the southeast.

• Bihar: Borders to the east.

If the Uttar Pradesh population is considered worldwide as a country, then it would be the 6th most populated country in the world.

Key Facts About the Bihar Population

• Population in 2026: Around 13.28 crore

• Share of India's population: About 9.3%

• Population growth rate in 2026: 1.38% (highest among all states)

• Capital city: Patna

This state is growing faster than any other state in India right now. It is also the most densely populated state, with around 1,388 persons per square kilometre.

Almost 58% of Bihar's population is below 25 years of age. This makes Bihar one of the youngest states in India.

Why is Uttar Pradesh the Most populated State in India?

Uttar Pradesh is the Most populated State in India because of these few simple reasons, which are:

1. UP is the 4th largest state in India: It covers the largest land area in northern India.

2. Farming families are large: Most people in UP live in villages and have larger families.

3. Historical growth: UP has had high population growth for many decades

4. More births than deaths. The birth rate in UP is still higher than in many other states.

Quick Comparison: UP vs Bihar

So, now all know, which is the most populated State in India? It is Uttar Pradesh, not Bihar. UP has around 24.35 crore people in 2026, which is almost double the population of Bihar. Both states are very important for India’s growth, especially as they both help in contributing to the production of many crops, Wheat, Sugarcane, and many others, which are playing as agriculture bone of India.