India’s Census 2027
India is set to conduct its next population census by March 1, 2027. This census will be unique as it will be the first digital census in the nation’s history. It will also include a caste enumeration, development since caste data has not been collected in previous censuses. The last census took place in 2011, and the planned census for 2021 was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Two-Phase Census Process
The upcoming census will be conducted in two phases. The first phase will involve house listing and housing schedules. This phase is expected to begin on June 16, 2025, with a completion date set for February 28, 2026. The second phase will focus on population enumeration and will commence on February 27, 2027, concluding on March 1, 2027. Special provisions will be made for regions like Ladakh and certain areas of Jammu and Kashmir, where the reference date will be October 1, 2026.
Caste Enumeration
For the first time, the census will include a count of castes. This addition aims to provide a clearer picture of social demographics in India. Enumerators will receive training to understand the new caste enumeration process. A new drop box will be introduced next to the existing categories for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
Training Enumerators
Approximately 30 lakh enumerators will be trained for this census. Many will be government school teachers. They will learn to use a mobile application designed for data collection. Training manuals will be updated to include guidelines for caste enumeration.
Impact on Political Representation
The census results will influence the delimitation of Lok Sabha and State Assembly constituencies. The current constituencies are based on data from the 1971 census. The new census data will be used to redraw boundaries, affecting political representation . The 33% reservation for women in Parliament and Assemblies will also depend on this exercise.
National Population Register
There has been no announcement regarding the updating of the National Population Register (NPR). The NPR is crucial as it serves as a preliminary step towards the National Register of Citizens (NRC). The collection of NPR details faced opposition from several states in the past.
Self-Enumeration Portal
A self-enumeration portal will be available for households that have updated their NPR online. This feature was developed during the planning stages for the 2021 census. However, it will only be accessible to those who meet the criteria.
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