With the world population now at 6 billion, the topic of overpopulation is becoming increasingly important. The planet cannot absorb an infinite number of humans, and steps need to be taken to combat unchecked growth. The thesis begins with a discussion of the problems currently manifesting themselves, including land degradation, water supply loss, farmland appropriation for living space, overfishing, and unequal food distribution. The thesis considers the population policy of China, long criticized by the West for its unusual harshness. In studying its history, though, it can be seen why the Chinese government felt radical steps were necessary. India's policy over the last few decades is also examined. In this case, early excesses on the government's part led to public unpopularity for the whole population control concept. Despite this, positive steps have been taken in several areas. The current availability of food and farmland in both states is studied to determine what environmental and nutritional effects the respective population policies have had. Comparisons are made between the two in an effort to gauge their relative success and to attempt to draw any lessons for either China or India.