India Set to Begin Census Process Next Year, Data Expected by 2026
The much-awaited census process in India is expected to commence next year, with preparations underway to conduct a nationwide census throughout 2025. According to a report by India Today citing government sources, the finalized census data will likely be published in 2026. Although the census typically occurs every decade, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the schedule, delaying the census that was originally planned for 2021.
The previous census was conducted in 2011, and the gap has caused significant anticipation for updated demographic data. This delay marks the longest in recent history, as the pandemic and subsequent logistical challenges left the process stalled for four years. However, government insiders suggest that with the extension of Census Commissioner Mrityunjay Kumar Narayan’s term until August 2026, the census is now on the horizon.
One of the critical impacts of the new census will be on the reallocation of Lok Sabha constituencies. The reorganization is slated to conclude by 2028, a year before the upcoming 2029 general election. This restructuring is aimed at ensuring fair representation in accordance with demographic shifts. The reallocation of Lok Sabha seats is significant, as it will affect political representation and could potentially reshape constituencies across the country.
Additionally, the upcoming census may address calls for caste-based surveys, a demand that has been increasingly vocalized by various political entities. Opposition parties, including the Congress, have advocated for a comprehensive caste census, arguing that such data could inform more equitable policymaking. However, the central government has not made any formal announcement regarding a caste-based census or the types of data that will be emphasized.
According to sources, the census may include data segmented by general, Scheduled Caste, and Scheduled Tribe populations. This classification system has been in place since 1951, but demands for more detailed ethnic and caste data have grown in recent years. Congress leaders have called for a multi-party discussion on the structure and goals of the census to ensure transparency. They have specifically requested clarity from the government on whether the upcoming census will feature distinct demographic details for each caste group.
As digital transformation continues to reshape governmental operations, Home Minister Amit Shah announced that the 2025 census will be the first to be fully digital, utilizing mobile app technology to streamline data collection. This digital-first approach promises to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of the census, allowing officials to gather data in real-time and potentially reduce errors associated with traditional methods. Shah stated in August that the census would be conducted “at an appropriate time” and emphasized that a definitive decision would be communicated to the public once the government finalizes the details.
The implementation of mobile technology in the census process represents a significant shift in the traditional data-gathering method. This digital leap is expected to simplify data processing, allowing for quicker verification and less reliance on paper records. Additionally, digital tools could make it easier to track updates and provide additional support in areas where demographic data may be harder to gather.
The political landscape around the census process has also been heating up. The Congress Party recently called for an all-party meeting to discuss the potential implications of the census and to urge clarity on its scope. Congress leaders have stressed that the census should present a clear breakdown of the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe statistics, as has been the practice since 1951, while pushing for further details on other caste demographics.
The demand for caste-based demographic data has intensified, particularly as opposition parties view it as crucial for crafting policies that address socioeconomic disparities across communities. These parties argue that detailed demographic information could inform policies for education, employment, and welfare programs, thereby promoting inclusivity and equality across India’s diverse social fabric.
The central government, however, remains cautious about these demands. It has not yet confirmed whether additional caste-based data will be included or if the census will maintain its historical structure of categorizing only broad social categories. Analysts suggest that the government may choose to focus on broader socio-economic indicators to prevent the census from becoming a politically divisive tool.
As the country prepares for the census, the political climate surrounding this issue is expected to intensify. With various parties advocating for more granular demographic data, particularly for caste and ethnicity, the government may face increased pressure to clarify its stance on these issues.
The extension of Mrityunjay Kumar Narayan’s term as Census Commissioner signals the government’s commitment to kick-starting the census process after years of delay. For the time being, Indians are awaiting updates on what will be a landmark census, both for its digital transition and for the potential new demographic data it may reveal.