Sources: 
India’s 2027 Census is scheduled to commence on March 1, 2027, and will be conducted in two phases over approximately three years.
This comprehensive exercise will include caste enumeration, with the final data expected to be published around 2030.
The census, a decennial event last conducted in 2011, was postponed from its original 2021 schedule due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The inclusion of caste data has been a significant point of discussion, with the opposition INDIA bloc, led by Rahul Gandhi, advocating for an updated caste census. They argue that accurate and current population and socio-economic data are essential for effective policy-making.
“The census exercise will take about three years and the final data of the 2027 Census will be published around 2030, after the Caste to be enumerated in this Census exercise,” government officials stated.
This census will be the 16th conducted in India since independence, aiming to provide critical demographic insights in the world’s most populous country.
“India's next census--the exercise to count population and along with caste enumeration in the world's most populated country--will begin from March 1, 2027,” officials confirmed.
The delay and phased approach reflect the complexities of conducting such a vast enumeration amid evolving socio-political demands.
The census data will be pivotal in shaping future government policies, resource allocation, and social justice initiatives, especially concerning caste-based representation and welfare programs.
“The opposition INDIA bloc led by Rahul Gandhi has been pushing for a Caste census to be held, arguing it is necessary to have an accurate, up-to-date count of population and socio-economic data for effective policy-making,” highlighting the political significance of the census.
Overall, the 2027 Census represents a critical step in updating India’s demographic and social landscape, with caste data playing a central role in the nation’s governance and development strategies.
Sources: India’s 2027 Census will begin March 1 and unfold in two phases, with final caste data expected by 2030. The decennial census, delayed from 2021 due to the pandemic, aims to provide updated population and caste information, responding to calls for accurate socio-economic data for policy-making.
