India's 16th Census with Caste Enumeration Set for 2027

The Indian government has announced the country's 16th census, featuring caste enumeration, to be conducted in 2027. The census will have two phases: Houselisting Operation and Population Enumeration. Approximately 34 lakh enumerators will collect data, with digital devices and self-enumeration options available to ensure a comprehensive data-gathering process.

The Indian government has issued a notification for the 16th national census, scheduled to take place in 2027, with a special emphasis on caste enumeration. This announcement marks 16 years since the previous census in 2011 and introduces digital and self-enumeration methods to enhance data collection.

The census, pivotal in generating accurate population data, will commence in October 2026 in snow-bound areas such as Ladakh and March 2027 for the rest of India. The initiative involves 34 lakh enumerators and 1.3 lakh census functionaries, focusing on demographic, socio-economic, and cultural statistics.

The process will unfold in two phases: Houselisting Operation, documenting housing conditions and assets, followed by Population Enumeration, capturing detailed personal and cultural data. Security measures will safeguard the integrity of data during collection, transmission, and storage, a priority emphasized by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.