NEW DELHI: India is preparing for its largest-ever population count with Census 2027, a massive exercise aimed at enumerating over 1.4 billion people. Originally scheduled for 2021, the census was delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent elections but is now set to be one of the most comprehensive surveys undertaken in the country.
The government plans to deploy around 30 lakh field personnel for data collection and supervision, with an allocated budget of Rs 11,718.24 crore.
What makes Census 2027 different
For the first time, the census will be conducted entirely in a digital, paperless format. It will use mobile applications, online self-enumeration, and real-time monitoring systems to streamline the process and improve accuracy.
Households will be able to submit their details through a secure portal in multiple languages, generating a unique ID that can later be verified by enumerators.
The exercise will take place in two phases—house-listing and population enumeration. The first phase will capture data on housing conditions, amenities, and assets, while the second will focus on demographic details.
Return of caste enumeration
A major shift in Census 2027 is the inclusion of caste data for all communities—the first such move since 1931. After independence, caste enumeration was largely discontinued except for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
The government has said detailed questions on caste will be finalised and notified before the population enumeration phase begins.
Why the census matters
Census data plays a critical role in policymaking, influencing decisions on infrastructure, healthcare, education, and welfare schemes. It also determines allocation of central funds and subsidies, while helping track trends in migration, employment, and population growth.
Delimitation debate resurfaces
The upcoming census is also expected to revive discussions around delimitation—the redrawing of parliamentary constituencies based on population data. This has sparked concerns, particularly among southern states, about potential shifts in political representation.
Challenges ahead
Experts warn that delays in the census could affect timely policy planning. Concerns also remain around digital access, data accuracy, and clarity on how caste data will be collected and used.
Despite these challenges, Census 2027 is expected to redefine how India gathers and uses population data, marking a significant step toward a more data-driven governance framework.
