Our Bureau
New Delhi
India has launched the world’s largest and first fully digital census on April 1, 2026. Called Census 2027, this huge exercise will count every person in the country using mobile apps and online tools.
The census starts with house-listing operations on April 1 in some areas. It marks the 16th Census of India and the 8th since Independence. The government approved Rs 11,718.24 crore for this task last year.
For the first time, people can fill their own details online. A self-enumeration portal and mobile app let households enter data in 16 languages, like Hindi and English. Users log in with their mobile number, submit info, and get a unique Self-Enumeration ID. Enumerators will check this ID during visits.
The enumerators will use smartphones to collect data, replacing old paper forms. Features include GPS tagging, offline mode for poor network areas, and cloud uploads. A Census Management System will track work in real time for better speed and accuracy.
This digital shift comes after the 2021 census delay due to COVID-19. It will gather data on population, houses, jobs, and more to help plan schools, hospitals, and welfare schemes. A 15-day self-enumeration window opens before enumerator visits.
Officials stress strong data security measures. The full count will wrap up by 2027, giving fresh numbers for elections and growth plans.
This modern census promises quick results and fewer errors. India, with over 140 crore people, leads the world in this tech-driven count.
