Explore the Demography of Bihar 2025 — from its 13.43 crore population and high density to caste dynamics, literacy gains, and migration trends. Understand how Bihar’s youth, caste survey data, and religious diversity shape its politics and development ahead of the 2025 Assembly Elections.
Bihar, the heartland of ancient Indian civilization, stands in 2025 as India’s third-most populous state, representing both promise and pressure. With a projected population of 13.43 crore, the state mirrors India’s demographic future—young, densely populated, and socially layered.
As Bihar heads toward the 2025 Assembly Elections, its evolving demography, drawn from the 2011 Census, the landmark 2023 Bihar Caste Survey, and recent population estimates, is central to understanding its political equations, development challenges, and social fabric.
Demography of Bihar 2025: Population Surge
Bihar’s population has soared from 10.41 crore in 2011 to 13.43 crore in 2025, marking a 24–25% decadal growth and an annual rise of 1.42%. The state now accounts for nearly 10% of India’s total population, ranking only behind Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra.
With a population density of 1,388 persons per sq. km—the highest in India—Bihar faces immense pressure on land, water, and infrastructure. The fertile Ganga basin, though agriculturally rich, witnesses recurring floods that displace millions annually.
Yet, Bihar’s greatest asset is its youth. Over 40% of its population is under 25, and the median age is just 20 years—a potential demographic dividend if harnessed through education and employment. However, the high fertility rate (3.41), the highest in India, poses challenges for sustainable development.
Out-migration remains a defining feature, with nearly 5 crore Biharis working outside the state, contributing to remittances but also indicating a lack of local opportunities. Urbanization is still limited—only 11–20% of the population lives in cities—though Patna is emerging as a growing urban hub, with a projected 70 lakh residents.
Demography of Bihar 2025: Key Population Indicators (2025 estimates)
| Metric | Value |
| Total Population | 13.43 crore |
| Males | 6.98 crore |
| Females | 6.45 crore |
| Sex Ratio | 927 females per 1,000 males |
| Child Population (0–6 years) | ~25% |
The sex ratio has improved modestly, aided by schemes like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, but urban areas still lag behind rural ones (895 vs. 921).
Caste Composition: The 2023 Survey’s Lasting Impact
Bihar’s caste matrix continues to shape its politics and society. The 2023 Bihar Caste Survey, which counted 13.07 crore people across 215 castes, revealed that Backward Classes—including OBCs and EBCs—collectively form 63.13% of the population, reinforcing demands for expanded reservation policies.
Caste-wise Breakdown:
| Category | Percentage | Key Communities |
| Extremely Backward Classes (EBC) | 36.01% | Over 130 castes (artisans, laborers) |
| Other Backward Classes (OBC) | 27.12% | Yadavs (14.4%), Kurmis (4%), Kushwahas (8%) |
| Scheduled Castes (SC) | 19.65% | Dusadh, Mushahar (Dalit communities) |
| Scheduled Tribes (ST) | 1.68% | Indigenous groups in hilly regions |
| General (Upper Castes) | 15.52% | Brahmins (3.66%), Rajputs (3.45%), Bhumihars (2.86%) |
| Muslims (cross-category) | 17.70% | Integrated within OBC/EBC framework |
Together, OBCs, EBCs, SCs, and STs make up nearly 85% of Bihar’s population. This social reality has reshaped electoral politics, fuelling caste-based coalitions and calls for equitable resource distribution.
Demography of Bihar 2025: Religious Landscape
Bihar remains a multi-religious yet largely harmonious society.
- Hindus: 82%
- Muslims: 17% (majority in northern districts like Kishanganj, where they form 68%)
- Buddhists, Christians, Jains: Less than 1% combined
The state’s religious map reflects its historical significance—Bodh Gaya, Nalanda, and Rajgir are sacred to multiple faiths. While communal harmony largely prevails, socio-economic disparities occasionally test inter-community relations.
Demography of Bihar 2025: Literacy and Education
Bihar’s literacy rate has seen remarkable progress, rising from 61.8% in 2011 to nearly 78–79% in 2025.
- Male Literacy: 79.7%
- Female Literacy: 60.5%
- Urban Literacy: 77%
- Rural Literacy: 59–70%
Districts like Rohtas (75.5%) lead the way, while Purnia (52.4%) lags behind. Government initiatives such as free bicycles for girls, school meal schemes, and teacher recruitment drives have narrowed gender gaps, though dropout rates remain a concern.
Linguistic Profile:
Bihar’s cultural richness thrives through its regional languages—Bhojpuri (50%), Maithili, and Magahi dominate everyday communication and local media.
Demography of Bihar 2025: Challenges and Pathways Ahead
Bihar’s demographic story is one of potential and paradox. Its youthful population offers a chance to transform the state into a hub of innovation and human capital. Yet, persistent issues—migration, low female participation, caste disparities, and climate vulnerability (70% flood-prone districts)—demand urgent policy action.
The upcoming 2025 Census, delayed due to the pandemic, is expected to provide updated clarity on Bihar’s social and economic indicators, which will, in turn, guide political narratives and developmental agendas.
As Bihar stands at the crossroads of change, its demographic fabric remains the most powerful lens through which to understand its politics, progress, and people.