Abstract This study presents a comprehensive analysis of religious demographic changes in Satara District, Maharashtra, between the Census years 2001 and 2011. By examining religion-wise population data disaggregated by gender and rural–urban residence, the study explores population growth patterns, structural shifts, urbanization trends, and sex ratio dynamics across major religious communities. The analysis reveals a moderate overall population growth of 10.88%, with Hindus remaining the dominant group, while minority communities, particularly Muslims and Christians, exhibit higher relative growth rates. Urbanization has accelerated across all religious groups, with the Jain and Christian populations showing the highest urban concentration, reflecting broader socio-economic and occupational restructuring. A notable decline in the overall sex ratio, from 1070 females per 1000 males in 2001 to 988 in 2011, highlights emerging gender imbalances, primarily within the Hindu majority population. Despite these changes, the structural religious composition of the district remains largely stable, indicating continuity alongside demographic transition. The study underscores the importance of localized demographic analysis in understanding socio-economic transformations, migration patterns, and urbanization processes, and provides critical insights for policymakers and planners in addressing population growth, gender balance, and community development.
R. S. Chaure (Sat,) studied this question.