India Notifies 40 Questions for Census 2027 Population Enumeration Phase

The Indian government has notified 40 questions for the second phase of the Census 2027, which includes the collection of caste details for the first time since independence. The population enumeration phase will begin on September 1 in Ladakh and snow bound areas of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. For the rest of the country, the process is scheduled to take place in February 2027. An online self enumeration window will be open from August 17 to August 31.

The questionnaire includes an open ended question for caste, allowing respondents to declare their caste regardless of whether they belong to a Scheduled Caste or Scheduled Tribe. Other new additions to the census include questions regarding the place of Covid 19 vaccination, the total number of bank accounts, and digital literacy. The form also seeks personal details such as name, religion, disability, and migration history, as well as voluntary information including Aadhaar, Voter ID, and mobile numbers. For the first time, particulars for both the mother and father will be collected separately.

Reports on the inclusion of caste data vary in framing. A left leaning source frames the move as a response to Opposition demands to identify the population of Other Backward Classes to expand quotas in jobs and education. A center right source frames the decision as a political move by the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs ahead of assembly polls in Bihar to counter the Opposition's agenda. The census will utilize digital tools and a dedicated mobile application for the first time while maintaining traditional door to door enumeration.