Age Distribution

India has a young population with approximately 64% of its population in the age group of 15 to 64 years. The median age in the country is around 25.3 years, which is lower than many countries in the world. On current projections, India’s population will rise from 1.03 billion in 2001 to 1.43 billion by 2031 . The number of people aged between 14 to 64 years is expected to increase, resulting in a higher ratio of workers to dependants and higher savings rates. India’s demographic profile will be a significant source of long-term economic strength relative to most countries.

Languages

Hindi is the national language of India, but there are in all 21 officially recognized languages. Besides the recognized languages, there are as many as 180 minor languages and 7000 dialects, adding to India’s linguistic diversity.

English is recognized under the Constitution as an additional official language and as the authoritative legislative and judicial language of the Union of India. English is commonly spoken in most urban areas, almost certainly in all metropolitan cities, and is used by business and social elite throughout the country, and is often the only common language between persons from different parts of India.

Religions

Hinduism is the predominant religion in India, practiced by over 80% of the population. The other important religious denominations include the Muslims, Christians, Sikhs (1.9%), Buddhists (1%), with Jains and Zoroastrians making up the balance. However, the Constitution grants all citizens of India the right to freedom to practice any religion as a fundamental right.

Social Traditions

Enormous diversity exists in food habits, social customs and traditions in different parts, particularly between the northern and southern parts of India. Marriages and festivals are the most important occasions for social gatherings, celebrated with much fanfare all over India. The joint family is a strong institution in most parts of India, and it is normal for sons to stay with their parents even after marriage. However, the structure is beginning to dissipate, with job opportunities leading to migration and resettlement in other cities, eventually creating smaller, nuclear families. Divorces and live-in relationships are becoming more visible in cities although attitudes toward them are generally non-neutral. Foreigners may also like to note a few essential facts about Indian social customs:

• Non-vegetarian food habits, drinking and smoking are considered unacceptable to some groups, especially the Brahmins, and are not generally allowed in religious places or during festivals.
• The cow enjoys a special status among the Hindus. Beef consumption is banned in most parts of India.
• The traditional Indian greeting, especially for women, is to fold hands before the other person. However, it is increasingly customary for urban women to shake hands with men, especially in business situations. Kissing on the cheek is still not popular, though gradually becoming a practice in the urban upper classes. Public display of affection continues to attract curious interest.
• Among Hindus, a vermilion dot on a woman’s forehead indicates that she is married.