Census 2027: Questionnaire for First Phase Notified with 33 Questions

First phase of Census 2027 questionnaire notified with 33 questions.

Photo by Muhammad Abdul Majid

The Registrar-General and Census Commissioner of India (RG&CCI) notified 33 questions for residents to answer in the first phase of Census 2027, scheduled between April 1 and September 30. The notification, published on January 7, 2020, for Census 2021 (delayed due to COVID-19), had 31 questions. The new notification splits the combined question on the type of floor, wall, and roof into three distinct questions regarding the "predominant material used in the floor, wall, and roof" of the house. This will be the first digital Census, the first to count caste, and the first where respondents can self-enumerate through a portal. The Population Enumeration (PE), the second phase of Census 2027, will be done in February 2027.

Key Facts

Census 2027: First phase questionnaire notified

Number of questions: 33

Census 2021: Had 31 questions

First digital Census

First caste-based Census

UPSC Exam Angles

GS Paper II: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.

GS Paper I: Population and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues, urbanization, their problems and their remedies.

Potential question types: Statement-based MCQs, analytical questions on the socio-economic implications of census data.

Visual Insights

Key Statistics: Census 2027

Highlights of the upcoming Census 2027, focusing on key changes and features.

Total Questions in First Phase: 33
Phases of Census 2027: 2
First Digital Census: Yes
Self-Enumeration Option: Available

More Information

Background

The history of census-taking in India dates back to the Mauryan Empire, with detailed accounts found in Kautilya's Arthashastra. However, the modern, systematic census began during British rule. The first complete census was conducted in 1872, though it was non-synchronous across different regions.

The first synchronous census across the entire country was conducted in 1881. Post-independence, the Census Act of 1948 provided a statutory framework for conducting the census. Over the decades, the census has evolved from a simple headcount to a comprehensive data collection exercise, incorporating socio-economic indicators, housing characteristics, and demographic details.

The inclusion of caste data has been a contentious issue, with debates ongoing since the colonial era. The digital transformation of the census represents a significant leap, aiming for greater efficiency and accuracy in data collection and analysis.

Latest Developments

Recent developments in census methodology include the increased use of technology for data collection and processing. The 2021 census, though delayed, aimed to be the first fully digital census, allowing for self-enumeration. The decision to collect caste data has been a subject of intense political debate, with various states pushing for its inclusion to better inform social justice policies.

Looking ahead, the focus is on ensuring data privacy and security, while also leveraging census data for evidence-based policymaking and targeted interventions. There is also a growing emphasis on using census data for monitoring progress towards Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the national and sub-national levels. The use of GIS technology for mapping and spatial analysis is also expected to enhance the utility of census data.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. With reference to the Census in India, consider the following statements: 1. The Census Act was enacted in 1948, providing a statutory framework for conducting the census. 2. The first synchronous census in India was conducted in 1872. 3. The Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India (RG&CCI) is responsible for organizing and conducting the census. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A.1 and 3 only
B.2 and 3 only
C.1 and 2 only
D.1, 2 and 3

Show Answer

Answer: A

Statement 1 is correct as the Census Act of 1948 provides the legal framework. Statement 3 is correct as RG&CCI is the responsible authority. Statement 2 is incorrect; the first synchronous census was in 1881.

2. Which of the following statements accurately reflects a change in the questionnaire for Census 2027 compared to Census 2021?

A.Combining questions on the type of floor, wall, and roof into a single question.
B.Splitting the combined question on the type of floor, wall, and roof into three distinct questions.
C.Removing questions related to housing characteristics.
D.Introducing questions on individual income levels.

Show Answer

Answer: B

The new notification splits the combined question on the type of floor, wall, and roof into three distinct questions regarding the 'predominant material used in the floor, wall, and roof' of the house.

3. Assertion (A): The Census 2027 aims to be the first digital census in India, allowing for self-enumeration. Reason (R): Digital census methods are expected to improve data accuracy and reduce the time required for data processing. In the context of the above statements, which of the following is correct?

A.Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
B.Both A and R are true, but R is NOT the correct explanation of A.
C.A is true, but R is false.
D.A is false, but R is true.

Show Answer

Answer: A

Both the assertion and the reason are true. The digital census aims for self-enumeration, and this method is expected to improve accuracy and reduce processing time.

4. Which of the following is NOT a potential benefit of conducting a caste census in India?

A.Improved targeting of social welfare programs.
B.Better understanding of socio-economic inequalities.
C.More accurate representation in government jobs and educational institutions.
D.Simplification of the process of identifying individuals for taxation purposes.

Show Answer

Answer: D

A caste census is primarily aimed at understanding social and economic inequalities and improving targeting of welfare programs. It is not directly related to simplifying the taxation process.