New Delhi: The government confirmed that Census 2027 will use digital enumeration for the first time and include caste data after a Cabinet decision.
Officials said the move will speed up nationwide data collection and improve efficiency. Earlier, the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs approved caste enumeration on April 30, 2025, making it a central feature of Census 2027.
The government will conduct the exercise in two phases. First, authorities will carry out the houselisting and housing census between April and September 2026. During this phase, enumerators will collect details on housing, assets, and amenities. In addition, citizens can use a 15-day self-enumeration window before field visits.
Next, officials will begin population enumeration in February 2027. They will gather demographic, socio-economic, and migration data. At the same time, they will record caste details. The reference date remains March 1, 2027.
The Centre allocated ₹11,718.24 crore for the exercise. Moreover, it reinforced legal safeguards under the Census Act, 1948, which protects personal data confidentiality.
Digital tools strengthen Census 2027 execution
Authorities introduced multiple systems to support Census 2027 operations. For instance, the Census Management and Monitoring System portal will track progress in near real time. Similarly, enumerators will use a mobile app to collect and upload data directly from the field.
In addition, officials will use a web-based mapping tool to create houselisting blocks with satellite imagery. Meanwhile, the self-enumeration portal will allow citizens to submit details online and generate a unique ID for verification.
The government also strengthened data security measures. It applied end-to-end encryption and stored data in certified critical information infrastructure centres. Furthermore, these systems follow ISO standards and undergo regular audits.
Authorities mobilised about 31 lakh enumerators and supervisors for the exercise. They also launched over 80,000 training batches to improve accuracy and efficiency. At the same time, around 18,600 technical personnel will support operations, generating more than 1.02 crore man-days of employment.
Officials said Census 2027 will deliver reliable and detailed data. Therefore, it will help policymakers design targeted welfare schemes and improve resource allocation across sectors.
