India's 16th National Census to Begin in Nagpur on May 1
The 16th National Census of India is set to kick off in Nagpur on May 1, with a focus on digital methods for data collection. The process will unfold in two phases, allowing citizens to self-enumerate online before government officials conduct door-to-door surveys. Approximately 4,500 enumerators will gather data from residents, who will answer 33 questions regarding their households. The Municipal Commissioner has emphasized the importance of accurate data collection and warned against negligence among staff. This census aims to provide updated demographic insights following the last census in 2011.
| Apr 29, 2026, 16:08 IST
Census Process Launch in Nagpur
The 16th National Census of India is set to commence in Nagpur on May 1. The Nagpur Municipal Corporation has chosen the theme 'Census for Public Welfare' for this initiative. This entire process will adopt a digital-first approach, meaning that digital tools will be utilized primarily.
Census to be Conducted in Two Phases
The census will be executed in two phases. Phase One (May 1 to May 15): During this period, citizens will have the opportunity to fill out their information online through self-enumeration.
Phase Two (May 16 to June 14): In this phase, government officials (enumerators) will conduct surveys door-to-door. They will record information using the 'House Listing Operation' (HLO) mobile application.
Staffing and Preparations
For this task, approximately 4,500 enumerators and 700 supervisors have been deployed within the Nagpur Municipal Corporation limits. Each enumerator is responsible for collecting data from around 800 residents.
How to Fill Out Information Online
Citizens can use their mobile phones or computers to enter their information on the official portal se.census.gov.in. This portal operates in 16 languages. Once the head of the household completes the form, they will receive an 11-digit 'SE ID'. It is mandatory to show this ID to the enumerators visiting their homes.
Commissioner's Warning
The Municipal Commissioner, Vipin Itankar, has issued strict instructions to all staff to utilize digital tools correctly to ensure accurate data collection. He also warned that any employee found negligent in their duties would face severe consequences.
Census Questions and Previous Data
According to the 2011 census, Nagpur's population was recorded at 2,405,665, comprising 1,225,405 males and 1,180,260 females. This time, residents will need to answer a total of 33 questions. These questions will cover aspects such as the structure of the house, construction materials, number of rooms, family details, social category, and amenities like drinking water, electricity, toilets, drainage, bathrooms, kitchens, and cooking fuel.