Why in News?
The Centre informed the Lok Sabha that no decision has been taken to update the National Population Register (NPR) during the upcoming 2027 Census. The Census will be conducted in two phases, including caste enumeration, with plans under finalisation.
Description:
- National Population Register (NPR) is a database of all “usual residents” in India.
- Usual resident: A person residing in an area for 6 months or more or intending to stay for the next 6 months.
- Mandatory for all usual residents to register under National Population Register (NPR).
Legal & Institutional Framework:
- Based on Citizenship Act, 1955 and Citizenship (Registration of Citizens and Issue of National Identity Cards) Rules, 2003.
- Maintained by: Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Timeline:
- First collected: 2010 (preceding Census 2011)
- Updated: 2015 (door-to-door survey)
- Next update: To be conducted along with Census 2026 (House-listing phase)
Data Collected:
- 21 Demographic details, e.g., parent’s birthplace, Aadhaar (voluntary), PAN, DL, mobile number, etc.
- Biometric data (linked via Aadhaar; new biometric not required if already enrolled in Aadhaar).
- Mobile app-based collection & centralized monitoring portal.
Administrative Levels:
Prepared at: Local → Sub-district → District → State → National
Significance:
- Enhances governance and service delivery.
- Acts as the base for targeting beneficiaries of welfare schemes.
- Supports national security and internal surveillance.
- May serve as a precursor to NRIC (National Register of Indian Citizens).
- Aims at reducing duplication in official records and electoral rolls.
- Promotes “One Identity Card” by integrating Aadhaar, Voter ID, etc.
Comparison: National Population Register (NPR) vs NRC vs Census:
| Feature | National Population Register (NPR) | NRC | Census |
| Law | Citizenship Rules, 2003 | Citizenship Rules, 2003 | Census Act, 1948 |
| Scope | All residents | Only Indian citizens | Citizens (demographic/socio-economic) |
| Purpose | Database of residents | Citizenship verification | Statistical and planning data |
| Verification | Local scrutiny | Document-based verification | Self-declared |
Challenges:
- Privacy concerns: Lack of data protection law.
- Overlap with Aadhaar: Functional redundancy.
- State Opposition: Kerala, West Bengal resisted citing NRC/CAA links.
- Federal issues: Though under List I, States may challenge under Article 131.
- High cost: Especially if extended to NRC nationwide.
Way Forward:
- Ensure privacy protection (as per SC ruling on Aadhaar).
- Public awareness to distinguish NPR from National Population Register (NPR).
- Prevent duplication with Aadhaar.
- Build citizen trust through transparency and outreach.
- Use technology for seamless data collection and verification.
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