Why in the News
Ladakh is set to be the first to begin the Population Enumeration phase of Census 2027, from 17 August, with an open-ended caste column. It is the first full caste count in independent India’s Census.
What is Population Enumeration?
- Definition: Population Enumeration is the second phase of the Census, when detailed data on every individual, including caste, is collected.
- First phase: It follows Houselisting, which records housing and household amenities.
Why does caste enumeration matter?
- Policy base: Caste data underpins reservation, welfare targeting, and sub-categorisation debates that currently rely on 1931 caste figures.
- Open-ended column: An open caste field captures self-reported identity rather than a fixed dropdown, raising classification and comparability challenges.
- Security-sensitive geography: Ladakh’s enumeration near the China and Pakistan borders is being geo-tagged, adding a strategic dimension.
Conclusion
The caste column makes Census 2027 a landmark data exercise for social policy. The next milestone is the nationwide enumeration schedule.
Matching Previous Year Question
“No direct PYQ traced in the provided files. Closest microtheme: Census / Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India.”
