Census 2027 to Be Conducted in Two Phases: Key Details Revealed

The Census 2027 is set to take place in two phases, starting with House Listing in April 2026, followed by Population Enumeration in February 2027. The process will incorporate digital tools for data collection, including mobile apps and online self-enumeration. Additionally, caste enumeration will be part of this census, reflecting the government's commitment to comprehensive data gathering. This article delves into the timeline and methodologies that will shape the upcoming census, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 3, 2025, 09:58 IST

Overview of Census 2027

Guwahati, Dec 3: The upcoming Census 2027 is set to unfold in two distinct phases, with the initial phase scheduled from April to September 2026, followed by the second phase in February 2027, as announced in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday.

In response to a query from Rahul Gandhi, Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai elaborated on the process, indicating that the first phase will involve House Listing and Housing Census, while the second phase will focus on Population Enumeration (PE).

The first phase will take place over a 30-day period, tailored to the convenience of various states and Union Territories.

The Population Enumeration is slated for February 2027, with a reference date set for 00:00 hours on March 1, 2027. However, for the Union Territory of Ladakh and certain snow-affected areas in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, this will occur in September 2026, referencing 00:00 hours on October 1, 2026.

The minister noted that the census questionnaire is developed based on feedback from various ministries, departments, and census data users prior to each census.

With a legacy spanning over 150 years, the census process incorporates lessons learned from previous exercises to enhance future censuses.

Additionally, the minister confirmed that caste enumeration will be included in the census, as per the decision made by the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs on April 30 this year.

In a further update, it was revealed that Census 2027 will leverage digital technology, utilizing mobile applications for data collection and offering an online self-enumeration option.