Recent Developments in Data Collection and Census in India

Steps to Improve Data Availability

• Household Consumption Expenditure Surveys:
  • Conducted for 2022-23 and 2023-24.
  • Provide granular data on household spending patterns.
  • Allow estimation of poverty and inequality.
• Labour Force Surveys:
  • Revamped sample design to generate monthly estimates of key labour market indicators.
  • Aims to aid in effective policymaking.
• Upcoming Census:
  • Dates announced for the much-delayed Census 2027.
  • Last Census was conducted in March 2011, delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Census 2027 Details

• Phases:
  • Household listing likely to begin by March-April 2026.
  • Enumeration exercise to take place over 21 days in February 2027.
• Reference Dates:
  • Mainland: 00:00 hours on the first day of March, 2027.
  • UT of Ladakh and snow-bound areas of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand: 00:00 hours on the first day of October, 2026.
• Caste Enumeration:
  • First detailed data collection on caste beyond Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes since 1931.

Implications of the Census

• Raises questions about delimitation and implementation of 33% reservation for women in Parliament.
• Provides population estimates and data on household socio-economic indicators.
• Aids government agencies and private entities in formulating policies and strategies.

The Census serves as a critical tool for policy making in India, and its timely execution is essential for informed decision-making and addressing socio-economic challenges in the country.