Census 2027 Kicks Off April 1: Digital, Caste Data, Self-Enumeration Option

• India's Census 2027 'House Listing' phase begins April 1, 2026, continuing until September 30, 2026.
• For the first time, citizens can self-enumerate online 15 days before officials visit, marking India's first 'Digital Census'.
• The census will collect caste-wise data, a first since 1931, including SCs, STs, and other castes electronically.
• Population enumeration (second phase) is scheduled for February 2027, with final figures by March 1, 2027.
• Union Cabinet allocated Rs. 11,718 crore for the project, involving 30 lakh enumerators for national development.

Why It Matters: India's Census 2027 introduces digital self-enumeration and caste data collection, crucial for national planning.