India's 16th Census to begin from April 1, 2026, with houselisting operations

India's forthcoming Census, the 16th since independence and the eighth post-1947, is set to begin its first phase of Houselisting Operations and Housing Census from April 1, 2026. This announcement was made by Census Commissioner and Registrar General of India, Mrityunjay Kumar Narayan, in a letter addressed to the chief secretaries of all states and Union Territories.

The Census will be a two-phase exercise. The initial phase, the Houselisting Operation (HLO), will focus on collecting data related to housing conditions, assets, and amenities available to each household. Following this, the second phase, Population Enumeration (PE), is scheduled for February 1, 2027. This latter phase will gather comprehensive demographic, socio-economic, cultural, and other personal details of every individual residing in each household. Notably, this Census will also include caste enumeration, a significant addition confirmed by a government statement.

For the successful execution of this massive undertaking, over 34 lakh enumerators and supervisors, along with approximately 1.3 lakh other Census functionaries, will be deployed nationwide. Prior to the commencement of data collection, the appointment and training of these personnel, along with work distribution, will be carried out in cooperation with state and district administrations.

A key highlight of the upcoming Census is its digital approach. It will be conducted primarily through mobile applications, and for the first time, a provision for self-enumeration will be made available to citizens, allowing them to submit their details independently. The Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner has prepared around three dozen questions covering various aspects, including household ownership of items like phones, internet, vehicles, and appliances, as well as details on cereal consumption, water sources, sanitation facilities, and housing characteristics.