Census 2027: First Digital Rollout Features Self-Help & Geotagging

The year 2027 will witness a significant milestone in India’s data collection history with the country’s first fully digital Census. This landmark exercise follows a six-year gap, with extensive preparations including a nationwide pre-test scheduled for November 10-30, 2025. The pre-test will meticulously evaluate the operational framework, including new mobile apps, survey techniques, and logistical arrangements in selected areas across all states and Union Territories. A major highlight for Census 2027 is the introduction of self-enumeration, empowering citizens to provide their demographic details online through a dedicated window from November 1-7, 2025. This digital initiative is legally supported by amendments to the Census Act. Additionally, for the first time, caste data will be collected nationally, and all buildings, whether residential or commercial, will be geotagged using Digital Layout Mapping (DLM) integrated with GIS. The census is structured into two main stages: Housing Listing from April to September 2026, and Population Enumeration in February 2027, with earlier commencement in select northern and eastern states. The extended timeline has been crucial for developing and integrating these technological advancements for a comprehensive and accurate count.