Details of the Nationwide Caste Count
The upcoming population census marks a historic shift in how demographic data is gathered across the country. The central government has officially released a comprehensive list of 40 questions for the second phase of the population enumeration. For the first time since independence, the exercise will include a formal caste count for all communities. Previously, systematic tracking was limited only to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. Recent announcements and updates reported by outlets like
The official notification includes 40 distinct demographic and socio-economic questions.
Question number 10 specifically covers Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and general caste details.
Enumerators will record caste names directly based on what respondents declare in an open column format.
Schedule and Implementation Phases
The massive administrative exercise is structured to roll out across different regions starting in late 2026 and early 2027. Snow-bound and remote areas, including parts of Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu and Kashmir, will begin their population enumeration phase early due to weather conditions. For the rest of the nation, the field work is planned for February 2027. This digital-backed census also provides residents with convenient options for self-enumeration to make the process smoother.
