Centre Confirms Mobile-App Based Census for 2027

Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai informed the Lok Sabha on December 2 that Census 2027 will be fully digital, with data collected through a mobile app and a self-enumeration portal. He added that the entire operation will be monitored in real time through the Census Management and Monitoring System (CMMS).

Responding to Congress MP Rahul Gandhi’s question about the timelines of census on questionnaires, the Ministry clarified that the exercise will be conducted in two phases—house listing from April to September 2026, followed by population enumeration in February–March 2027.

In another question, Rahul Gandhi asked whether draft Census questions would be opened for public feedback or shaped by state-level caste surveys. The Ministry replied that the questionnaire is finalised internally using inputs from government departments, organisations, and data users, and that draft questions are field-tested before being officially notified, with no provision for public consultation.

MP Shatrughan Prasad Sinha also sought details on the Census proforma, the possibility of clashes with board exams, and whether caste disclosure would be optional. In response, the Ministry said the questionnaire is still being finalised, the schedule will not overlap with board exams, and respondents are legally required to answer caste-related questions under the Census Act.

India last conducted a Census in 2011, and the 2021 round was postponed due to COVID-19, making the 2027 exercise the first in 16 years. In moving to a digital Census, experts have raised concerns about privacy, cybersecurity, and digital access. With only about 55% of Indians online (Datareportal), questions remain over digital literacy and whether everyone can effectively use the new system.