Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about the upcoming Census 2026-27, the digital process, and how it impacts you.
The Census Process Cycle
Notification
Official Gazetted
Notification
Houselisting
April - Sept 2026
(Listing of structures)
Population Enumeration
Feb - March 2027
(Headcount)
Digital Data
Release of
Statistical Data
General Queries
QWhen will the Census 2027 be conducted?
The Census will be conducted in two phases. Phase 1 (House-listing and Housing Census) is scheduled to take place between April 1, 2026, and September 30, 2026. Phase 2 (Population Enumeration) will be conducted in February 2027, with a reference date of March 1, 2027, for most of the country. For snow-bound areas in Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, Phase 2 will be conducted in September 2026 with a reference date of October 1, 2026.
QIs the 2027 Census going to be digital? Can I fill out the form myself?
Yes, this will be India's first-ever digital Census. Enumerators will use mobile applications on smartphones to collect data. A new feature will allow for self-enumeration through a web portal. Households will have a 15-day window to fill in their details online before an enumerator visits.
QWill caste data be collected in the 2027 Census?
Yes, the government has officially decided to include caste enumeration in the second phase of the Census. This marks the first time since 1931 that caste data for communities other than Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes will be collected as part of the official Census.
QIs it mandatory to participate in the Census?
Yes. The Census is a statutory exercise conducted under the Census Act, 1948. According to Section 4 of this Act, every citizen is legally obligated to answer the census questions truthfully.
QWhat questions will be asked during the Census?
A total of 33 questions will be asked during the census process. These questions will cover details related to the house, family members, household assets, vehicles, and other key socio-economic information.
QWhat is the schedule for the enumerator's visit to my house?
The house-listing phase will occur within a 30-day window between April 1 and September 30, 2026, as decided by each State/UT. A 15-day period for self-enumeration will precede the start of the house-to-house enumeration in your area. The population enumeration phase will follow in early 2027.
Quick Facts
Mode
100% Digital
First time using Mobile App for data collection.
Jobs
25 Lakh+
Enumerators & Supervisors to be hired.
Security
Confidential
Protected under Census Act 1948.