India's Upcoming Decadal Population Census
India's next decadal population census, delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic, is now set to conclude by March 2027. The delay, influenced by political factors, impacts governance and social security schemes reliant on updated demographic data.
Technological Transition
- The Census will, for the first time, be conducted digitally.
- This allows faster data collection and better accessibility for analysis.
- While beneficial, it raises concerns about data theft and privacy.
Transparency is vital to maintain public trust in this digital transformation.
Demographic Challenges
- India faces challenges from both growing young and elderly populations.
- Significant regional variations in demographic indicators exist.
Fresh Census data can help address these demographic challenges.
Caste Enumeration
- For the first time since 1931, caste categories will be counted.
- This data can inform development planning.
- However, it may also lead to further social segmentation.
The dual impact of caste enumeration makes it a double-edged sword.
Delimitation of Constituencies
- The Census is linked to the next delimitation of Lok Sabha and Assembly constituencies.
- The Constitution mandates this based on population figures from the first Census after 2026.
- The current distribution of Lok Sabha seats is based on the 1971 population data.
States with lower population growth, especially in the peninsular region, worry about reduced parliamentary representation.
Political Implications
- The Centre has not clarified its stance on delimitation.
- Engaging stakeholders is essential to build consensus on this issue.
Failure to address this may suggest political motivations to benefit certain regions, particularly the Hindi-speaking States, by delaying the Census.