Why is the Census Notification Significant for J&K, Ladakh, Himachal, and U'Khand in 2026?
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Synopsis
The Union Home Ministry's recent notification regarding the population census in India is a pivotal development, especially for regions like Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. This unprecedented move includes caste enumeration, promising to impact policy-making and stir political debates.
Key Takeaways
- Population census to start in two phases.
- Caste enumeration included for the first time.
- First phase begins on October 1, 2026.
- Second phase starts on March 1, 2027.
- Political implications surrounding caste enumeration.
New Delhi, June 16 (NationPress) The Union Home Ministry has officially released the notification for the upcoming population census across the nation.
This census will entail extensive data gathering, including details about caste, and will be executed in two distinct phases.
The initial phase is set to commence on October 1, 2026, covering the union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, along with the hilly states of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
The subsequent phase will begin on March 1, 2027.
The notification issued by the Home Ministry, in accordance with Section 3 of the Census Act, 1948 (37 of 1948), states, "A census of the population shall be undertaken during the year 2027. The reference date for the said census shall be 00.00 hours of March 1, 2027, except for the Union territory of Ladakh and snow-bound non-synchronous areas of the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir and the States of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand."
For Ladakh and the snow-affected non-synchronous areas of Jammu and Kashmir, as well as the States of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, the reference date will be 00:00 hours of October 1, 2026.
This marks the first instance of caste enumeration being included in the extensive census process. The Central government, during a recent cabinet meeting, approved this inclusion, arguing that it would help in formulating more precise and targeted policies.
The decision to incorporate caste-based census ignited political tensions, with the Congress party asserting that the Modi administration was compelled to adopt their proposals for social justice and empowerment. In contrast, the BJP criticized the Opposition, claiming they merely pretended to advocate for the Backward Classes while it is the NDA government implementing significant changes on the ground.
Point of View
I recognize the significance of the recent census notification from the Union Home Ministry. This move not only sets the stage for extensive data collection but also marks a pivotal moment in Indian governance by incorporating caste details, which could lead to more targeted policy-making. It is crucial that the census process is conducted transparently and fairly, ensuring that all communities are accurately represented.
NationPress
16/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the timeline for the census in India?
The census will occur in two phases: the first phase will start on October 1, 2026, for Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, while the second phase will begin on March 1, 2027.
What new element is included in this census?
This census will include caste enumeration for the first time, aiming to provide better insights for policy-making.
Why has the caste enumeration stirred political debate?
The inclusion of caste details has led to political disputes, with parties like Congress arguing that the Modi government was pressured to adopt social justice measures.
How will this census impact policy-making?
Caste enumeration is expected to help the government frame more precise and targeted policies, addressing the needs of various communities.
What are the implications of this census?
The census could transform how social justice is approached in India and may lead to significant political shifts.
