What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
The announcement that the much-delayed Census 2021 will finally commence in 2025 marks a pivotal moment for India. Originally scheduled for 2021, the census was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a significant gap in the country’s demographic data. This delay has far-reaching implications for policy-making, resource allocation, and political representation.
The upcoming census will be India’s first digital census, a move that promises to revolutionize data collection. By allowing citizens to self-enumerate via a dedicated portal, the process aims to be more efficient and inclusive. However, the transition to a digital format also presents challenges, particularly in ensuring that all segments of the population, including those in remote and underserved areas, are accurately counted.
One of the most pressing issues surrounding the census is the question of caste enumeration. Since 1951, the census has only counted Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, leaving other caste categories unrecorded. There is a growing demand from political leaders, activists, and civil society groups for a comprehensive caste census to better understand the social landscape and ensure targeted policy interventions. The inclusion of caste data is essential for addressing the systemic inequalities that persist in Indian society.
The delay in conducting the census also affects the delimitation of parliamentary and assembly constituencies, which is due after 2026. The population figures from the census will form the basis for this delimitation, which will involve earmarking seats for women, Scheduled Castes, and Scheduled Tribes. The delay means that the delimitation process may not be completed in time for the 2029 national elections, potentially necessitating constitutional changes.
Moreover, the delay has implications for the National Population Register (NPR) update, which was to be done alongside the first stage of the census. The NPR is a critical tool for identifying and documenting residents, and its update is essential for ensuring the accuracy of the census data. The lack of clarity on the schedule for the NPR update adds another layer of complexity to the already challenging task of conducting the census.
Despite these challenges, the census presents an opportunity to address some of the longstanding issues in India’s demographic data collection. The digital format, if implemented effectively, can enhance the accuracy and efficiency of the process. It also offers the potential for greater transparency and public engagement, as citizens can directly participate in the enumeration process.
