Paper: GS – I/II, Subject: Indian Society and Social Justice, Topic: Population and Associated Issues, Issue: Census.
Context:
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs announced that India will conduct its next population census-in two phases, with counting to be completed by March 1, 2027 the first such exercise since 2011.
- After 2011, Census-was due in 2020-2021, but was delayed due to Covid pandemic.

Key Takeaways:
What is Census in India? Population Census-provides basic statistics on state of human resources, demography, culture and economic structure at local, regional and national level. Beginning in the year 1872, when the first census was conducted non-synchronously, the census enumeration exercise in India is carried out in every 10 years. The first synchronous census was taken under British rule in 1881, by W.C. Plowden, Census Commissioner of India. The responsibility of conducting the decadal census-rests with the Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India, Ministry of Home Affairs. |
What is the Legal/Constitutional basis of Census in India?
- Population census-is listed in Union List (entry 69) of Seventh Schedule in Indian Constitution. Census-is conducted under the provisions of the Census Act, 1948.
The Census-will be conducted in two phases:
- Phase I House listing: Details of all buildings, permanent or temporary, are noted with their type, amenities, and assets.
- Phase II Population enumeration: Detailed information on each individual residing in the country, Indian national or otherwise noted along with their caste.
What is the Process of census-enumeration?
- The Census-Operations in India have been carried out in two phases: House listing and Housing Census-and Population Enumeration.
- The Population Enumeration follows the Housing Census-within a gap of six to eight months.
- In Population Enumeration phase each person is enumerated and her/his individual particulars like Age, Marital status, Religion, mother tongue etc.
Significance of the Population-Census:

Conclusion:
- The upcoming Census-is a pivotal moment in India’s demographic history, with far-reaching implications for governance, representation, and social justice.
- The Census-will not only shape the political landscape but also influence policies aimed at uplifting marginalized communities and ensuring women’s representation in governance.
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