Fertility rates in India

 Fertility rates in India have declined across all religious groups, with an average of 2.2 children per woman as of 2015, shrinking the gaps between communities. By 2019-21, NFHS-5 data indicates Muslim women had a fertility rate of 2.4, Hindus 1.94, while Sikhs and Christians have fertility rates lower than the replacement level. 

Based on Pew Research Center and NFHS-5 data (2019-2021), fertility rates (average children per woman) are:

• Muslims: 2.4–2.6 children.
• Hindus: 1.94–2.1 children.
• Christians & Sikhs: Generally lower than the national average, with some regional data showing Sikh rates under 1.5 in areas like Punjab and Delhi. 

Key Trends & Factors:

• Rapid Convergence: The fertility gap between Muslims and Hindus has dropped significantly, from 1.1 children in 1992 to approximately 0.42 by 2019–21.
• Declining Rates: Over the last 30 years, Muslim fertility rates declined by 46.5% and Hindu rates by 41.2%.
• Socio-economic Drivers: Fertility is heavily influenced by factors such as education, income, and region, rather than religion alone.
• Regional Differences: Fertility rates vary by state, with higher rates generally in states like Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, and lower rates in southern states, regardless of religion. 

Note: The 2015 data (2.6 for Muslims, 2.1 for Hindus) was noted in a 2021 report, while the NFHS-5 (2019-21) data indicates a further decline (2.4 for Muslims, 1.94 for Hindus).