India has commenced the first phase of its 2027 Census, marking the country’s 16th census and the eighth since Independence, with the entire process being conducted digitally for the first time.
The first phase of India’s 2027 Census began on April 1, 2027, introducing a fully digital process for the first time. Traditional paper forms have been replaced with smartphone-based mobile applications used by enumerators to collect data. Citizens have also been provided with a “self-enumeration” option, enabling them to submit their personal and household information online.
This feature allows individuals to enter data at their convenience, with the aim of making the process faster and more transparent.
The Census 2027 will be conducted in two main phases:
This phase involves collecting information on housing conditions, available amenities, assets, and other basic details. It will be conducted from April 2026 to September 2026. The self-enumeration facility will be made available 15 days prior to the start of this phase in each area, allowing residents to submit data in advance.
The second phase will take place in February 2027 and will gather detailed information on individuals, including demographic details, education levels, socio-economic status, migration, and fertility-related data. Caste-based data will also be included in this phase.
The census schedule varies across states and Union Territories. In Delhi, Goa, Karnataka, Odisha, and Sikkim, house listing will be conducted between April 16 and May 15. In Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, and Chhattisgarh, the process will take place from May 1 to May 30. The staggered schedule has been designed to ensure systematic execution of the large-scale exercise.
The general reference date for Census 2027 is set as midnight of March 1, 2027. However, for snow-bound and remote areas of Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh, a separate reference date of October 1, 2026 has been निर्धारित to account for weather-related challenges.
The central government has approved a budget of ₹11,718 crore for the census. The allocation will be used to strengthen digital infrastructure, mobile applications, data security, and training.
To enhance inclusivity, the mobile application and online portal will be available in 16 languages, including Hindi and English, enabling wider participation across the country.
