Recent Developments in Data Collection and Census in India
Steps to Improve Data Availability
- Household Consumption Expenditure Surveys:
- Conducted for 2022-23 and 2023-24.
- Provide granular data on household spending patterns.
- Allow estimation of poverty and inequality.
- Labour Force Surveys:
- Revamped sample design to generate monthly estimates of key labour market indicators.
- Aims to aid in effective policymaking.
- Upcoming Census:
- Dates announced for the much-delayed Census 2027.
- Last Census was conducted in March 2011, delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Census 2027 Details
- Phases:
- Household listing likely to begin by March-April 2026.
- Enumeration exercise to take place over 21 days in February 2027.
- Reference Dates:
- Mainland: 00:00 hours on the first day of March, 2027.
- UT of Ladakh and snow-bound areas of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand: 00:00 hours on the first day of October, 2026.
- Caste Enumeration:
- First detailed data collection on caste beyond Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes since 1931.
Implications of the Census
- Raises questions about delimitation and implementation of 33% reservation for women in Parliament.
- Provides population estimates and data on household socio-economic indicators.
- Aids government agencies and private entities in formulating policies and strategies.
The Census serves as a critical tool for policy making in India, and its timely execution is essential for informed decision-making and addressing socio-economic challenges in the country.