The Census, a fundamental process in India, plays an integral role in collecting, compiling, analyzing, and disseminating demographic, economic, and social data at a certain time. The Census exercise provides a snapshot of the country’s population, aiding in formulating policies, allocating resources, and implementing various government programs. The 2021 India census, initially scheduled to be entirely digital, had to be postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite the pandemic ending, the Census is still pending. In light of ‘practical difficulties,’ it was decided to conduct the Census in ‘mix mode,’ utilizing both the mobile app and traditional paper forms.
About Census in India
The Census is a total process where data related to all persons in a country are collected and analyzed. The data collected aids in reviewing the country’s progress, monitoring ongoing government contracts, and future planning. The Census operations are carried out in two stages: Houselisting/Housing Census and Population Enumeration. The first synchronous Census was taken in 1881, and from then, they have been conducted uninterruptedly every ten years. The Census, however, does not have a legal mandate for its timing or periodicity; it is undertaken decennially as per the practices followed in many countries like the US, UK, etc.
The Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner, Ministry of Home Affairs, conducts the decennial Census.
Importance of Census
The Census serves as a source of primary and authentic data essential for various statistical analyses, planning, decision-making, and development initiatives in administration, economy, and social welfare sectors. The Census data is also utilized for demarcating constituencies and allocating representation in government bodies. Businesses and industries also rely on Census data for strengthening and planning their business strategies. Further, the Finance Commission utilizes the Census data to provide grants to the states.
Implication of Delaying Census
The delay in carrying out the Census exercise could result in challenges in framing policies due to outdated or non-comparable data. Unreliable data can upset every indicator on India’s progress and impact the efficiency of all developmental initiatives. Misrepresentation in political bodies is another consequence due to inaccurate seat reservations for SCs and STs. Welfare measures’ estimates might turn unreliable as these depend on census data for determining policies. Delays also impact Houselisting as changes in households, addresses, and demographics happen over time. Further, outdated Census data could not provide accurate migration data, which is essential in devising support services required by migrants.
The Way Forward
Given the critical implications, it is essential for the government to prioritize conducting the Census at the earliest. The government should allocate necessary resources and manpower for a smooth and efficient Census operation. Timely completion of the Census is crucial for accurate data, informed policy decisions, effective governance, and inclusive development in various sectors. The government should also leverage technology and innovative methods to streamline the data collection process.
The Census indeed is a monumental task and pivotal to the nation’s governance and planning systems. Despite the practical difficulties, especially with the pandemic, it’s a task that needs prompt attention and efficient execution.
