Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC) 2011
The SECC 2011 was conducted to collect data on the socio-economic status of households across India, with a focus on rural and urban areas. This census allowed for the ranking of households based on predefined parameters and was carried out between 2011 and 2013.
Data Collection and Usage
- Data was collected through a door-to-door enumeration exercise.
- Information from 24 lakh enumeration blocks, each containing about 125 households, was compiled.
- The data was intended for policy formulation, research, and the implementation of development programs.
Confidentiality and Accessibility
- While personal data collected during the population Census are confidential, SECC data is available for governmental use to allocate benefits.
Census 2011 and SECC Differences
The Census 2011 differed from the SECC in its approach and the scope of questions asked.
Questionnaire Details
- The Household Schedule in Census 2011 included 29 questions covering languages spoken, migration details, and children’s data.
- The SECC included specific economic-related questions not covered in the Census.
Caste Data
- The SECC sought disaggregated caste details, unlike the Census, which only categorized respondents as SC or ST without further details.
- The SECC collected the "Caste/ Tribe Status" and the specific name of the caste/tribe.
- According to a 1990 Government Order, SC status was limited to Hindus, Sikhs, and Buddhists, while ST status was more inclusive.
Additional Details in SECC
Economic Status
- Questions on housing details, amenities, and assets like refrigerators and vehicles were included.
- Income sources and employment types were surveyed in both urban and rural areas.
Urban and Rural Areas
- In urban areas, data on income sources and parental information were collected.
- In rural areas, information on tribal groups, bonded laborers, and manual scavengers was gathered, along with agricultural details.
