Census highlights of Kolkata

Kolkata, the state capital, is famed for its rich culture and the grand Victoria Memorial. Explore traditional cookery, including Kolkata Ke Kathi Rolls and Sandesh.

  • Kolkata district has a population of 44.97 Lakh, with 23.57 Lakh males and 21.40 Lakh females, resulting in a sex ratio of 908/1000.
  • The district has a literacy rate of 86.31%, which is higher than the national literacy rate of 74.04%.

Population of Kolkata in 2024

  1. The estimated population of Kolkata district in 2024 is 49.71 Lakh.
  2. This is an increase of 10.54% from the 2011 census population of 44.97 Lakh.
  3. The annual population growth rate of Kolkata is 0.84%.

The above population and growth rate are an educated estimate based on many things including past growth rates and new demographic trends of West Bengal. It may vary from source to source.

Population

As per the provisional reports of the 2011 census, Kolkata's population is 44,96,694. Out of the total people, 0% live in rural or village areas, while 100% live in urban or city areas.

Rural and Urban populations of Kolkata

Rural
0% 0
Urban
100% 44.97 Lakh

Map of West Bengal - Population, Literacy, Religion and more

  • Tap on any district for its info of selected parameter
  • * Districts with data as "NA" were created after the last census.
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    What percentage of West Bengal's population lives in Kolkata?
    Kolkata district accounts for approximately 4.93% of West Bengal's total population. Kolkata's population is 44.97 Lakh out of West Bengal's total population of 9.13 Crore.
    What is West Bengal's population?
    The population of West Bengal is around 9.13 Crore. It is the 4th most populous state in India, accounting for approximately 7.54% of the country's total population.

    Top most populated cities in West Bengal

    1
    North 24 Parganas
    1,00,09,781
    2
    South 24 Parganas
    81,61,961
    3
    Barddhaman
    77,17,563
    4
    Murshidabad
    71,03,807
    What is Kolkata's population rank in West Bengal?
    In West Bengal, Kolkata district is the 10th most populous district followed by Malda and Jalpaiguri
    What is Kolkata's population rank in India?
    In India, Kolkata district is ranked as the 35th most populous district.
    How many districts are there in West Bengal as of 2023?
    As of 2023, there are 24 districts in West Bengal.
    Districts created after the last census(2011):
    Alipurduar, Jhargram, Kalimpong, Paschim Bardhaman, Purba Bardhaman,
      What are the 3 least populated districts in West Bengal?
      1. Dakshin Dinajpur: With a population of over 16.76 Lakh, Dakshin Dinajpur is the least populated district in West Bengal which ranks 289th in India in terms of population.
      2. Darjeeling: With a population of over 18.47 Lakh, Darjeeling is the second least populated district in West Bengal which ranks 252nd in India in terms of population.
      3. Cooch Behar: With a population of over 28.19 Lakh, Cooch Behar is the third least populated district in West Bengal which ranks 136th in India in terms of population.
      *Country rank is out of 632 districts

      Kolkata's Population summary

      Total 44,96,694 23,56,766 21,39,928
      Rural 0 0 0
      Urban 44,96,694 23,56,766 21,39,928

      Sex ratio

      Sex ratio of Kolkata

    • The total sex ratio of Kolkata is 908/1000; this is lower than the sex ratio of West Bengal and lower than the sex ratio of India.
    • Rural and urban sex ratios of Kolkata are 0/1000 and 908/1000, respectively.
    • Different sex ratios in Kolkata
      West Bengal's sex ratio (950)
      Sex ratio ranking of Kolkata

      1

      Children

      933/1000

      2

      Non SC/ST

      909/1000

      3

      Total

      908/1000

      4

      Urban

      908/1000

      5

      SC

      889/1000

      6

      ST

      865/1000

      7

      Rural

      0/1000

      *If the sex ratio within a particular category is 0/1000, it indicates that the population count for that specific parameter is 0.
      What is sex ratio?
      Sex ratio in India refers to the number of females per 1000 males in the population. It is an important demographic indicator that reflects the balance between the male and female population in a society.
      What are the male and female populations of Kolkata?
      The population of Kolkata district is approximately 44.97 Lakh out of which, the male population is around 23.57 Lakh, while the female population is approximately 21.40 Lakh. The sex ratio of Kolkata is 908 females per 1000 males, which is lower than the national of 943 females per 1000 males.

      Highest sex ratio in West Bengal

      Rank
      District
      Sex Ratio
      What is Kolkata's sex ratio rank in West Bengal?
      In West Bengal, Kolkata district ranks 19th out of 19 districts.
      What is Kolkata's sex ratio rank in India?
      With a sex ratio of 908, Kolkata district ranks 474th in India.
      What are the 3 districts in West Bengal with the lowest sex ratio?
      1. Kolkata: With a sex ratio of 908, Kolkata ranks 19th in West Bengal and 474th in India.
      2. Purba Medinipur: With a sex ratio of 938, Purba Medinipur ranks 18th West Bengal and 368th in India.
      3. Uttar Dinajpur: With a sex ratio of 939, Uttar Dinajpur ranks 17th in West Bengal and 363rd in India.
      *Country rank is out of 632 districts
      What does low sex ratio denotes?
      A low sex ratio denotes an imbalanced proportion of males to females in a given population. It is an indicator of gender inequality, which can have serious consequences for the social, economic, and political well-being of a society. Here are some of the implications of a low sex ratio:
      1. Discrimination against females: A low sex ratio is often the result of discrimination against girls and women, including female foeticide, infanticide, and neglect of the girl child. It signifies that females are not valued or given equal opportunities in society.
      2. Social unrest: A large number of unmarried men due to a low sex ratio can lead to social unrest and an increase in crime, violence, and other societal issues. It can also lead to a rise in prostitution, human trafficking, and other social evils.
      3. Economic impact: A low sex ratio can negatively impact economic growth. It can lead to a shortage of skilled labor, reduced productivity, and increased healthcare costs due to an aging population.
      4. Demographic imbalance: A low sex ratio can cause a demographic imbalance, with an over-representation of males in the population. This can lead to a shortage of females for marriage, which can further perpetuate the cycle of gender discrimination.
      In conclusion, a low sex ratio denotes a society's deep-rooted gender inequality and can have serious implications for its social, economic, and political development. It is important to take measures to address the issue of gender discrimination and promote gender equality to ensure a balanced sex ratio for a better future.
      Why balanced sex ratio is impotant?
      A balanced sex ratio is an essential indicator of a healthy society, and it reflects the proportion of males and females in a given population. Here are some reasons why a balanced sex ratio is important:
      1. Gender equality: A balanced sex ratio signifies equal representation of both males and females in society. It ensures equal rights, opportunities, and social status for both genders and eliminates discrimination against girls and women.
      2. Social stability: A skewed sex ratio can lead to social issues, such as an increase in crime, violence, and instability. A balanced sex ratio helps to create a stable and harmonious social environment, where both men and women have an equal say in societal decisions.
      3. Economic growth: A balanced sex ratio can contribute to the economic growth of a society. It promotes the education and employment of women, which in turn leads to higher productivity and income growth, benefiting the overall economy.
      4. Demographic balance: A balanced sex ratio is essential for the overall demographic balance of a society. It ensures that there are enough individuals to support the needs of the society and reduces the pressure on resources.
      In conclusion, a balanced sex ratio is critical for the overall development and progress of a society. It promotes gender equality, social stability, economic growth, and demographic balance. Hence, it is essential to take measures to eliminate gender discrimination and ensure a balanced sex ratio for a better future.

      Kolkata's Sex ratio summary

      Total 908 52.41% 47.59%
      Rural 0 0% 0%
      Urban 908 52.41% 47.59%

      Literacy Rate

      Literacy of Kolkata

    • The total literacy rate of Kolkata is 86.31%, while the total male and female literacy rates are 88.34% and 84.06%, respectively.
    • The rural literacy rate of Kolkata is 0%, while the rural male and female literacy rates are 0% and 0%, respectively.
    • The urban literacy rate of Kolkata is 86.31%, while the urban male and female literacy rates are 88.34% and 84.06%, respectively.
    • Kolkata's literacy rate is higher than the literacy rate of West Bengal and higher than the literacy rate of India.
    • Total, Rural and Urban literacy rates of Kolkata
      West Bengal's literacy rate
      Total literacy across areas
      Total: 86.31% Rural: 0% Urban: 86.31%
      Male literacy
      Total: 88.34% Rural: 0% Urban: 88.34%
      Female literacy
      Total: 84.06% Rural: 0% Urban: 84.06%
      What is literacy rate?
    • The literacy rate in India refers to the percentage of the population aged 7 years and above who can read and write with understanding.
    • As of the 2011 Census of India, the literacy rate in India was 74.04%. It's worth noting that this figure varies widely by state and gender, with some states having literacy rates over 90% while others have rates below 60%.
    • Additionally, the literacy rate in India is constantly increasing due to various government initiatives and educational programs aimed at improving access to education for all.
    • Why is the literacy rate important?
      Literacy rate is a crucial factor for the educational and socio-economic development of a country. It indicates the percentage of people in a population who can read and write with understanding. Here are some reasons why literacy rate is important:
      1. Empowerment: Literacy empowers individuals by providing them with knowledge and skills, allowing them to make informed decisions and participate in the democratic process.
      2. Economic growth: Literacy is a key driver of economic growth and development. It provides individuals with the necessary skills to secure better employment opportunities, which in turn contributes to the country's economic growth.
      3. Improved health outcomes: Literacy is linked to better health outcomes, as literate individuals are more likely to seek out and understand health-related information, leading to healthier lifestyles and improved healthcare decisions.
      4. Social development: Literacy promotes social development by improving communication, social interactions, and overall quality of life.
      5. Reduction of poverty: Literacy plays a vital role in reducing poverty, as it enables individuals to participate in economic activities and access basic services such as healthcare and education.
      What is Kolkata's literacy rate ranking in West Bengal?
      With a literacy rate of 86.31%, Kolkata ranks 2nd among the 19 districts in West Bengal.
      What is Kolkata's literacy rate ranking in India?
      Kolkata's literacy rate is 86.31%, Kolkata ranks 47th out of 632 districts in India.

      Top literacy rates in West Bengal

      Rank
      District
      Literacy
      Which are the 3 least literate districts in West Bengal?
      As per the 2011 Census of India, the 3 least literate districts in West Bengal are:
      1. Uttar Dinajpur: With a literacy rate of 59.07%, Uttar Dinajpur is the least literate district in West Bengal.
      2. Malda: With a literacy rate of 61.73%, Malda is the second least literate district in West Bengal.
      3. Purulia: With a literacy rate of 64.48%, Purulia is the third least literate district in West Bengal.
      What does low literacy rate denotes?
      A low literacy rate denotes that a small percentage of the population in a given area, usually a country or a region, can read and write with understanding. A low literacy rate has several implications for the educational and socio-economic development of a society. Here are some implications of a low literacy rate:
    • Limited educational opportunities: A low literacy rate means that a significant proportion of the population does not have access to quality education. This can limit their personal and professional development and hinder their ability to contribute to the overall development of the country.
    • Economic challenges: A low literacy rate can lead to a lack of skilled workers and limit economic growth and development. It may also result in limited employment opportunities, leading to high unemployment rates and poverty.
    • Health challenges: A low literacy rate is linked to poor health outcomes, as people who are unable to read and write may struggle to access important health-related information, leading to poor health decisions and outcomes.
    • Social challenges: A low literacy rate can lead to communication and social interaction challenges, which can negatively affect the quality of life for individuals and the overall social development of the country.
    • Increased poverty: A low literacy rate is linked to higher poverty rates, as people who are unable to read and write may have limited access to employment opportunities and basic services such as healthcare and education.
    • Which are the 3 most literate districts in India?
      As per the 2011 Census of India, the 3 most literate districts in India are:
      • Serchhip : With a literacy rate of 97.91%, Serchhip, located in Mizoram is the most literate district in India.
      • Aizawl : With a literacy rate of 97.89%, Aizawl, located in Mizoram is the second most literate district in India.
      • Mahe : With a literacy rate of 97.87%, Mahe, located in Puducherry is the third most literate district in India.

      Kolkata's literacy summary

      Total 86.31% 88.34% 84.06%
      Rural 0% 0% 0%
      Urban 86.31% 88.34% 84.06%

      Religion and WPR

      All religious groups of Kolkata

      • As per the 2011 Census, the majority of the population in Kolkata district follows Hinduism, accounting for around 76.51% of the total population.
      • Islam is the second-largest religion in the district, with around 20.6% followers.
      • Christianity is the third-largest religion with around 0.88% followers.
      • Other religious communities in Kolkata include Jainism, Sikhism and Buddhism accounting for a small portion of population.
      Religion graph

      *Religions comprising 1-2% of the population are depicted in the graph above.

      Hindu 76.51% Muslim 20.6%
      Sikh 0.31% Christian 0.88%
      Buddhism 0.11% Jainism 0.47%
      Others 0.03% NA 1.09%

      Worker Population Ratio of Kolkata

      The worker population ratio of Kolkata stands at 39.93%, which means that 39.93% of the state's population is part of the workforce.
      This ratio is a key indicator of the state's economic health, as it reflects the level of labour force participation and employment opportunities available to the population.

      What does a high working population ratio denote?
      1. The working population ratio (WPR) is a measure of the proportion of the working-age population that is employed.
      2. A high WPR generally indicates a strong and healthy economy, while a low WPR can be a sign of economic weakness.
      3. A high WPR can lead to increased economic growth, higher levels of productivity, and increased tax revenue for the government.
      4. A high WPR can help to reduce poverty and inequality by providing more opportunities for individuals to earn a living and support themselves and their families.
      5. A low WPR can lead to a variety of negative consequences, including higher levels of poverty, social unrest, and reduced economic growth.
      6. The WPR is typically calculated by dividing the number of employed individuals in a population by the total working-age population.
      7. A high WPR can be achieved through various means, including creating more job opportunities, improving education and training programs, and promoting entrepreneurship.
      8. A high WPR can also help to attract foreign investment and improve a country's international competitiveness.
      9. A high WPR is not the only indicator of a strong economy, and other factors such as income inequality, inflation, and public debt should also be considered when assessing economic performance.
      Overall, a high working population ratio is an important economic indicator that reflects the level of economic activity and productivity within a country or region.
      How does low working population ratio impact?
      1. The working population ratio (WPR) is a measure of the proportion of the working-age population that is employed.
      2. A low WPR can be a sign of economic weakness, indicating that there are not enough job opportunities available to support the working-age population.
      3. A low WPR can lead to higher levels of poverty, social unrest, and reduced economic growth.
      4. A low WPR can also lead to a decrease in tax revenue for the government, which can further hinder economic development.
      5. A low WPR can be caused by various factors, including a lack of investment in job creation, low levels of education and training, and demographic changes such as an aging population.
      6. Addressing a low WPR requires a multi-faceted approach, including creating more job opportunities, improving education and training programs, and promoting entrepreneurship.
      7. A low WPR may also require policy interventions such as tax incentives for businesses that create jobs or subsidies for industries that are experiencing growth.
      8. A low WPR can be particularly challenging in rural areas or regions with limited economic opportunities, and may require targeted efforts to attract investment and create new industries.
      9. A low WPR can negatively impact the social fabric of a society, leading to increased crime rates, drug abuse, and other social problems.
      Overall, a low working population ratio is an important economic indicator that reflects the level of economic activity and productivity within a country or region. Addressing a low WPR requires a comprehensive approach that takes into account the various factors that contribute to low employment rates.

      Kolkata's Working population summary

      Total 39.93% 59.93% 17.91%
      Rural 0% 0% 0%
      Urban 39.93% 59.93% 17.91%

      List of all districts of West Bengal

      Bankura

      Birbhum

      Cooch Behar

      Dakshin Dinajpur

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