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VOL. I · EST. 11.2025 
SatyaDheesh
सत्याधीश
India's Ground Truth Record
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Caste Census starts in Ladakh, uses paper due to border security concerns

GS2Polity · Governance · IR· Vulnerable sections (SC/ST, minorities, disabled, elderly, children)· Prelims·

Why in news

The Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India announced the commencement of the second phase of the Census, including caste enumeration, with specific security-based exceptions for Ladakh.

Background

The Census includes an open-ended column for caste enumeration. Due to security concerns near defense establishments along the China and Pakistan borders, paper schedules are being used instead of the standard digital format in Ladakh and snow-bound areas.

Facts for Prelims

  • BodyRegistrar General and Census Commissioner of India: The primary authority responsible for conducting the national census.
  • FactCensus Phase 2: Includes caste enumeration and is scheduled to run until September 30.
  • PlaceLadakh: A Union Territory where paper-based census is being used due to proximity to international borders.

For Mains

Q. Discuss the significance of caste enumeration in the Census for inclusive policy formulation and the challenges of conducting such exercises in sensitive border regions.

Dimensions to cover in your answer

  • Data-driven policy making
  • Social justice and representation
  • Security vs. Administrative transparency
  • Logistical challenges in border areas

Keywords: Caste enumeration · Data-driven governance · Border security · Inclusive development · Demographic profiling

Full chronology for revision →Read the full news →Report a mistake in this noteSource: The Hindu ↗Also: GS3 · Border management

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