India’s next Population Census, scheduled for 2027, will begin with houselisting operations (HLO) between April 1 and September 30, 2026, across all states and Union Territories. The Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India (RG&CCI) issued a notification on January 7, 2026, detailing the schedule and procedures for this initial phase.
Key Details of the Census
The HLO phase will be conducted over a 30-day period in each state, with specific dates to be announced by individual state governments. Residents will have a 15-day window prior to the start of the house-to-house operations to participate in self-enumeration.
This Census marks a significant departure from previous iterations, as it will be the first to be conducted digitally and the first to include enumeration of caste identities in independent India. The population enumeration (PE) phase, where caste identities will be collected, is planned for February 2027.
Preparatory Work and Personnel
A pre-test of the HLO phase was conducted between November 10 and November 30 of last year in select areas. This preparatory exercise involved gathering responses to 35 questions related to household characteristics, including housing materials, food consumption, water sources, and family composition.
Approximately 30 lakh field functionaries – encompassing enumerators, supervisors, trainers, and officers – will be involved in data collection, monitoring, and oversight of the Census operations. These individuals will receive an honorarium in addition to their regular salaries for their work on the Census.
The RG&CCI, Mritunjay Kumar Narayan, confirmed the schedule and self-enumeration option in a gazette notification.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the houselisting operations (HLO) phase?
The HLO phase is the first stage of the 2027 Census, focused on collecting information about households, including their structure, amenities, and occupants. It will take place between April 1 and September 30, 2026.
When will caste identities be enumerated?
Caste identities will be enumerated during the population enumeration (PE) phase, which is scheduled to take place in February 2027.
How many people will be involved in the Census operations?
Approximately 30 lakh field functionaries will be deployed for data collection, monitoring, and supervision of the Census operations.
As the Census progresses, it will be important to observe how the digital format impacts data accuracy and accessibility, and how the inclusion of caste enumeration influences policy discussions and social understanding.
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