Current Population Size

• As of recent estimates, Nepal's population is around 30 million. Worldometers estimates about 30.6 million as of 2024.

Population Growth Rate

• Nepal's population growth rate has been declining over the past few decades.
• The annual growth rate is now below 1%. The World Bank indicates a growth rate of approximately 0.84% in 2022.

Population Distribution

• Nepal's population distribution is uneven, with a higher concentration in the Kathmandu Valley and the Terai region (plains) due to better economic opportunities and agricultural productivity.
• Many rural, hilly, and mountainous regions are sparsely populated.

Demographic Composition

• Nepal has a relatively young population, but the median age is increasing, indicating a gradual aging of the population.
• Fertility rates have declined significantly over the years, contributing to the slowing population growth. The total fertility rate is around 2.1 births per woman.

Challenges and Opportunities

• Challenges: Rapid urbanization, pressure on resources and infrastructure, unemployment, and the need for improved healthcare and education services.
• Opportunities: A demographic dividend (a larger working-age population relative to dependents) if investments are made in education, skills development, and job creation.