India Census First Phase Begins from April 1 with Digital Enumeration Plan

• India census first phase starts from April 1
• Digital census to be conducted in two phases
• Second phase includes caste and religion data

India is set to begin the first phase of its upcoming census from April 1, marking the start of a large scale data collection exercise across selected states. Officials confirmed that preparatory field level activities will begin as part of the initial phase.

Registrar General and Census Commissioner Mrityunjay Kumar Narayan stated that the census will be conducted using a digital system, a significant shift from previous methods. The exercise will be carried out in two phases, with the first phase laying the groundwork for the final enumeration.

More than 31 lakh enumerators and supervisors along with over one lakh census staff will be involved in the process. To make participation easier, a self registration portal will be made available in 16 languages, allowing citizens to submit their details independently.

Each participant will be assigned a unique 16 digit identification number as part of the digital system. Officials said this approach aims to improve accuracy and efficiency in data collection.

The second phase of the census, which will be conducted later, is expected to include questions related to caste and religion. The Union Cabinet has already approved the inclusion of caste enumeration, although detailed procedures are yet to be finalized.

Enumerators will use personal mobile devices for data collection during the process, ensuring real time updates and faster compilation of information.

Authorities described the first phase as crucial in building the framework for the final census, which is expected to be completed in 2027.