According to the 2011 census, there were approximately 2.9 million atheists in India. This number represents a significant increase from the 0.7 million atheists who were recorded in the 2001 census.

There are a number of factors that could be contributing to the growth of atheism in India. These include:

• The rise of education and literacy. As more and more Indians are becoming educated, they are exposed to different ideas and perspectives, including those that challenge traditional religious beliefs.
• The growth of the internet and social media. These platforms have made it easier for people to connect with others who share their atheist views. They have also made it easier for people to access information about atheism and to challenge religious dogma.
• The increasing visibility of atheists in India. In recent years, there has been a growing number of public figures in India who have come out as atheists. This has helped to normalize atheism and to make it more acceptable for people to express their non-belief.

Of course, there are also factors that could be working against the growth of atheism in India. These include:

• The continued influence of traditional religious beliefs. Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity are the three major religions in India, and they continue to have a strong influence on the country's culture and society.
• The rise of Hindu nationalism. In recent years, there has been a rise in Hindu nationalism in India. This movement has been associated with a backlash against secularism and a promotion of Hindu religious values.
• The social stigma associated with atheism. In some parts of India, there is still a social stigma associated with atheism. This can make it difficult for people to come out as atheists and to live openly as non-believers.

Overall, it is difficult to say definitively whether atheism is growing in India. However, there is some evidence to suggest that it may be. The factors that are contributing to this growth are complex and varied. It is likely that the growth of atheism in India will continue to be a topic of debate and discussion in the years to come.

In addition to the factors mentioned above, there are a few other things that could be contributing to the growth of atheism in India. These include:

• The increasing awareness of the problems caused by religion. In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the problems caused by religion, such as religious violence, religious discrimination, and religious extremism. This has led some people to question the value of religion and to explore alternative ways of thinking about the world.
• The rise of secularism. In recent years, there has been a growing movement towards secularism in India. This movement is based on the belief that the state should be separate from religion. This has led to a more tolerant environment for atheists in India.

It is important to note that the growth of atheism in India is not a monolithic phenomenon. There is a diversity of views among atheists in India, and their reasons for rejecting religion vary. Some atheists are motivated by intellectual reasons, while others are motivated by social or political reasons.

Despite the diversity of views among atheists in India, there is a growing sense of community among them. They are increasingly organizing themselves and speaking out about their beliefs. This is likely to continue in the years to come, and it could have a significant impact on the religious landscape in India.