Jain Population in India
Census figures, percentages and state-wise data, and why the real Jain population is likely far higher than the record.
As per the Census of India 2011, the Jain population in India is 4,451,753, which is about 0.4% of the country's total population. This makes Jains one of India's smallest religious communities by recorded numbers, even though Jainism is among its oldest faiths.
Jains have the highest literacy rate of any community in India (94.88% in Census 2011) and contribute far beyond their share to the nation's economy, taxes and philanthropy. Yet their recorded population remains small, partly because many Jain families are not counted under their correct religious identity.
Counted vs Estimated
Jain Population by State (Census 2011)
The states with the highest Jain population in India. Maharashtra leads, followed by Rajasthan, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh.
| State | Jain Population (2011) |
|---|---|
| Maharashtra | 1,400,349 |
| Rajasthan | 622,023 |
| Gujarat | 579,654 |
| Madhya Pradesh | 567,028 |
| Karnataka | 440,280 |
| Uttar Pradesh | 213,267 |
| Delhi | 166,231 |
| Tamil Nadu | 89,265 |
Source: Census of India 2011. Maharashtra has the highest Jain population of any Indian state.
Why the real Jain population is likely higher
While Census 2011 recorded about 44.5 lakh (4.45 million) Jains, community and sangh estimates put the actual Jain population in India far higher, with many estimates near 2 crore (20 million). The gap comes from undercounting: many Jain families are recorded under a broader category, or sect identities are split rather than counted together as one community.
An accurate count matters because population numbers shape political representation, government planning, minority welfare schemes and resource allocation. When Jains are undercounted, the community's voice and entitlements are weakened.
Frequently asked questions about the Jain population
How many Jains are there in India?
As per Census 2011, there are 4,451,753 Jains in India, which is about 0.4% of the total population. Community estimates suggest the real number is considerably higher.
What percentage of India's population is Jain?
Jains make up about 0.4% of India's population according to Census 2011, making them one of the smallest religious communities by recorded numbers.
Which state has the highest Jain population in India?
Maharashtra has the highest Jain population of any state, with about 1.4 million Jains as per Census 2011, followed by Rajasthan, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh.
Why is the Jain population considered undercounted?
Many Jain families are recorded under a broader category rather than as Jain, and sect identities (Digambar, Shwetambar, Sthanakvasi and others) are sometimes split instead of counted as one community. This is why the recorded 4.45 million is likely lower than the true figure.
When is the next census that will count Jains?
India's next National Census is scheduled for 2027, with Digital Self-Enumeration allowing households to record their own details. It is the next opportunity for every Jain to be counted correctly.
Help every Jain be counted correctly
The Census 2027 is the next chance to record an accurate Jain population. Join Let Every Jain Count to spread awareness so no Jain family is missed.