Fact Check: "India is the second-most populous country in the world."
What We Know
India has been recognized as the second-most populous country in the world for many years. According to the World Factbook, India ranks second in terms of population, with a significant number of inhabitants. As of 2023, India has an estimated population of approximately 1.4 billion people, making it one of the most populous nations globally. However, recent estimates indicate that India has overtaken China to become the most populous country, as reported by the BBC and Nations Online Project.
Analysis
The claim that "India is the second-most populous country" was accurate until recently, as India had maintained this position for decades. However, recent data indicates that India is now the most populous country in the world, surpassing China. The National Portal of India and Wikipedia corroborate this information, noting that India has a population that exceeds 1.4 billion, which is higher than that of China.
The reliability of the sources used is generally high. The World Factbook is a reputable source published by the CIA, providing verified demographic data. The BBC is a well-respected news organization, and the National Portal of India is an official government website, which adds to its credibility. Wikipedia, while useful, should be approached with caution due to its open-edit nature, but it often cites reliable sources.
Given the recent changes in population statistics, the claim that India is the second-most populous country is now outdated and incorrect.
Conclusion
Verdict: False
The statement that "India is the second-most populous country in the world" is no longer accurate. As of 2023, India has surpassed China to become the most populous country globally, with a population exceeding 1.4 billion people.
