India’s long-pending Census 2021 is expected to begin in the coming months, with the government aiming to complete the massive population-counting exercise by the end of 2026, according to sources familiar with the matter.
Why the Delay?
The census, originally scheduled for 2020-21, was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. More recently, debates around whether to include caste-based data further stalled the process.
An official, who chose to remain anonymous, said:
“It may begin soon as whether to include or not the caste enumeration was only delaying the entire exercise.”
India’s First Digital Census
The upcoming census will be India’s first-ever digital census, making use of a dedicated mobile app for data collection and a census portal for managing operations and monitoring progress.
Increased Questions, Bigger Budget
Including caste data means the number of questions during the house listing may increase from 31 to 32. Initially, the government allocated ₹8,754.23 crore for the census and ₹3,941.35 crore for updating the National Population Register (NPR) — totaling around ₹12,000 crore.
Budget Cuts Explained
In March 2025, the Union Home Ministry informed a parliamentary panel that most preparatory activities are complete, and the lower allocation of ₹574 crore (down from ₹1,309 crore the previous year) is due to the pending start of field operations.
“As and when the census exercise is undertaken, additional funds will be sought as per the year-wise requirement,” the ministry clarified.
Historic & Policy Importance
India has conducted a census every 10 years since 1881. The data is vital for:
- Policy-making & development planning
- Demarcating electoral constituencies
- Determining state-wise representation in Parliament
What’s Next?
While no official start date has been announced, Union Home Minister Amit Shah has reiterated that the government is committed to completing the exercise. Once launched, the census is expected to offer updated insights into India’s demographic and socioeconomic landscape.
