The Union of Myanmar has a population of more than 48 million (1995 Census). According to the country?s basic principles, anyone can freely profess any religion he or she likes. Currently, the population consists of Buddhists 89.28 %, Christians 5.06 %, Islamists 3.78 %, Hindus 0.51 %, Animists 0.21 % and others 0.16 %. As to Theravada Buddhism, the Union of Myanmar officially recognizes nine ganas (sects). They are: Sudhamma gana; Shwekyin gana; Dhammanu-dhamma mahadvaranikaya gana, Dhammavinayanuloma muladvaranikaya gana; Anauk-chaung dvara gana; Veluvanna nikaya gana; Catubhummika mahasatipatthana ngettwin gana; Ganavimutti gadoh gana; and Dhamma- maharin gana.