The Outlook For Jains And Jainism.
Summary
The article examines the declining population of Jains in India, highlighting a steady decrease in numbers over recent decades. Census data shows a 6.1% decline in the last decade (1901-1911) and a 5.8% decrease between 1891 and 1901, contrasting sharply with India’s overall population growth of 11.8% and 9.7% in the same periods. Provincial figures reveal even steeper declines, with some regions like Gwalior experiencing over 30% reduction. The author notes potential undercounting in earlier censuses due to Jains being misclassified as Hindus, suggesting actual declines might be even more severe. Despite being a relatively affluent, health-conscious community less affected by famines, Jains failed to match the national population growth rate, raising alarms about their long-term survival. The article attributes this decline to factors like plague, assimilation into Hinduism, conversion to Arya Samaj, and perceived decay of Jainism. It calls for urgent action to reverse the trend, emphasizing that wealth and philosophical heritage alone cannot prevent extinction without proactive measures.
Summary reviewed by a volunteer editor.
Conclusion
The stark decline in the Jaina population, as revealed in this analysis, underscores a critical challenge for the community. While historical pride in Jainism’s antiquity and intellectual independence remains valid, the demographic reality—over a 6% decrease in the last decade, with some regions experiencing catastrophic drops—demands urgent attention. This decline, far exceeding India’s overall population growth, highlights systemic issues, including socioeconomic struggles, famine, and misclassification in censuses. The absence of natural increase, coupled with the community’s small size, exacerbates the risk of cultural erosion. This document’s findings serve as a call to action: to address internal and external pressures, preserve identity, and reverse this alarming trend through education, advocacy, and socio-economic reforms, ensuring Jainism’s survival and relevance in a modernizing world.