Has the Government Confirmed Caste Enumeration in Census 2027?
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Synopsis
The Central government has confirmed the inclusion of caste enumeration in Census 2027, debunking false claims circulating on social media. This landmark decision marks the first caste-based enumeration since Independence, utilizing digital methods and ensuring data security. Learn more about the Census phases and the government's commitment to accuracy.
Key Takeaways
- Caste enumeration confirmed in Census 2027.
- Two phases: Houselisting and Population Enumeration.
- Digital methods to be used for data collection.
- Stringent data security measures in place.
- First caste enumeration since Independence.
New Delhi, June 17 (NationPress) The Central government has dismissed false reports circulating on various social media platforms that claim caste enumeration will not be part of Census 2027.
On Monday evening, the Press Information Bureau (PIB) took to the social media platform X, stating: "Always rely on authentic sources for accurate information," and urged the public to refrain from believing in unverified online content.
In another post on X, PIB confirmed: "The Government has already announced that caste enumeration will be conducted alongside Census 2027. For more details, please visit: PIB Announcement."
Union Home Minister Amit Shah reviewed the preparations for the upcoming Census with senior officials, including the Union Home Secretary and the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India, in New Delhi on June 15.
The official gazette published the notification to conduct the Census on Monday.
The Census will unfold in two phases:
- Phase One - Houselisting Operation (HLO): This phase will gather information about housing conditions, assets, and amenities of each household.
- Phase Two - Population Enumeration (PE): This will collect demographic, socio-economic, cultural, and other personal details from every household.
Caste enumeration will also be integrated into the Census.
Approximately 34 lakh enumerators and supervisors, along with around 1.3 lakh Census functionaries, will be engaged for the Census activities.
This Census marks the 16th since its inception and the eighth since India gained Independence.
The upcoming Census will utilize digital methods through mobile applications.
Self-enumeration options will also be provided to citizens.
Stringent data security measures will be implemented to safeguard data during collection, transmission, and storage.
Previously, the Union Home Ministry had fact-checked misleading claims regarding this issue.
The Ministry's response was prompted by allegations from Congress, questioning the gazette notification's silence on caste inclusion and suggesting it might represent another "U-turn" by the Central government.
However, the notification confirmed that caste enumeration will indeed be included.
Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh urged the Centre to adopt the Telangana model for caste enumeration and detailed socio-economic data collection.
The Census will reference October 1, 2026, for snow-bound regions like Ladakh, and March 1, 2027, for the rest of India.
This will be the first caste-based enumeration since Independence, with the last comprehensive caste count conducted by the British between 1881 and 1931.
Caste enumeration was excluded from Independent India's census operations until this decision, made by the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 30.
Point of View
The inclusion of caste enumeration in Census 2027 is a significant step that reflects the government's commitment to transparency and accurate data collection. This decision is crucial for understanding the socio-economic dynamics of our diverse population and can aid in targeted policy-making.
NationPress
17/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Will caste enumeration be part of Census 2027?
Yes, the government has confirmed that caste enumeration will be included in Census 2027, dismissing any false claims to the contrary.
When will the Census be conducted?
The Census will take place in two phases: Houselisting Operation will begin on October 1, 2026, for snow-bound areas, and Population Enumeration will commence on March 1, 2027, for the rest of the country.
What are the phases of the Census?
The Census will be conducted in two phases: Phase One (Houselisting Operation) for housing conditions, and Phase Two (Population Enumeration) for demographic and socio-economic data collection.
How will data security be handled during the Census?
Stringent data security measures will be implemented to ensure the protection of data during collection, transmission, and storage.
Is this the first caste enumeration since Independence?
Yes, the upcoming Census will mark the first caste-based enumeration since India gained Independence.
