2027 Census to include caste enumeration; pre-test uses open column for recording
For the first time since 1931, India's Population Census 2027 will include caste enumeration, a decision announced by the BJP-led NDA government in April 2025. The ongoing pre-test for the second phase of the Census, conducted in 16 States and Union Territories, features an "open column" for respondents to record their castes. This methodology, similar to the 2011 Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) which resulted in over 46 lakh different caste names, raises concerns about data accuracy and the need for wider consultations. The final methodology will be determined based on feedback from the pre-test, which is on till July 20, 2026.
Key Points
- The Population Census 2027 will include caste enumeration, a significant policy shift after decades.
- The ongoing pre-test for the Census uses an "open column" for caste recording, similar to the 2011 SECC.
- Concerns exist regarding the accuracy and standardisation of caste data due to the open-ended methodology.
- Opposition parties have called for wider consultations with stakeholders before finalising the methodology.
Exam Facts
- Caste enumeration will be part of Population Census 2027.
- Last caste-wise population data collected was in 1931.
- BJP-led NDA government announced the decision on April 30, 2025.
- The 2011 Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) resulted in over 46 lakh different "caste names."
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