ঢাকাবৃহস্পতিবার , ৬ অগাস্ট ২০২৬
International desk: Global population growth continues at a rapid pace, with thousands of children born every few hours worldwide. Recent estimates based on United Nations average birth-rate data reveal that India leads the world in childbirth numbers in a two-hour period, while Bangladesh remains among the top 10 countries, emphasising the demographic burden of South Asia.
According to the estimates, around 1,300 children are born in India every two hours, the highest figure globally. India’s position highlights its large population base and a fertility rate that, while declining, remains high enough to drive substantial population growth. China follows with about 900 births and Nigeria ranks third with unevenly 600, highlighting how South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa lead global birth statistics.
Bangladesh ranks 10th worldwide, with nearly 170 children born every two hours. Although the country has made significant progress in reducing fertility rate over the past decades through improved access to healthcare and family planning, its dense population ensures that birth numbers remain significant. According to the demographers, Bangladesh’s challenge is no longer just managing population growth, but ensuring quality education, healthcare and employment for its mounting youth population.
Other regional comparisons further show the contrast. Pakistan records around 420 births every two hours, Indonesia about 400, while the United States reports unevenly 250, the highest among developed nations. In contrast, many European countries record far lower numbers, with Germany seeing nearly 30 births, the United Kingdom 28 and France 26 in the same time frame.
Experts underscore that high birth rates in countries such as India and Bangladesh present both opportunities and risks. A large young population may fuel economic growth if supported by strong investment in education, health and skills development. Without such investment, however, population pressure could strain resources and slow development. Ensuring that every child is healthy, educated and financially productive remains the key challenge for the decades ahead.
