North 24 Parganas Becomes India’s Most Populated District

Context:

• According to demographic estimates for 2025 , North 24 Parganas in West Bengal has become the most populated district in India , overtaking Thane (Maharashtra) . With a population of around 10.9 million and a density of 2,469 people per sq km , it now ranks among the most densely populated regions in the world .

Reasons Behind the Population Surge

• Urban Expansion: The district is a vital part of the Kolkata Metropolitan Region (KMR) , encompassing fast-growing zones such as Salt Lake (Bidhannagar), Rajarhat, Barasat, and Barrackpore .

• Economic Growth: Its proximity to Kolkata and a flourishing IT and service sector have attracted large-scale migration from across eastern India.

• Historical Migration: After the Partition of India (1947) , millions of refugees from East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) settled here, significantly increasing the population base.

• Formation: North 24 Parganas was carved out in 1986 from the larger 24 Parganas district.

Thane’s Population Decline

Earlier, Thane district was India’s most populated with 11.06 million people (2011 Census) . However, the creation of Palghar district in 2014 reduced Thane’s population to about 8.07 million , allowing North 24 Parganas to take the top spot.

Urban and Economic Profile

• Employment: Over 1,500 IT companies operate in Salt Lake and New Town, employing nearly 3.5 lakh people .

• Infrastructure: Rapid development through metro expansion, flyovers, and smart city projects has driven urbanisation.

• Economy: The district balances a mix of urban industries, agriculture, and fisheries , reflecting a semi-urban transformation pattern.

Exam-Oriented Facts

• Most Populated District (2025): North 24 Parganas, West Bengal

• Population: ~10.9 million

• Density: 2,469 people/sq km

• Formed: 1986

• Major Cities: Barasat, Barrackpore, Bidhannagar, Rajarhat

• Previous Leader: Thane (Maharashtra)

• Region: Part of Kolkata Metropolitan Region