2027 Census: 'Open Column' to Record All Castes for First Time
GS1History · Society · Geography· Social diversity, caste & tribes· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
The Census office is conducting a pre-test for the 2027 Census's Population Enumeration phase, featuring an 'open column' for residents to record their caste for the first time since 1931.
Background
The Census office is conducting a pre-test for the Population Enumeration (PE) phase starting in February 2027. The pre-test, which includes an open column for caste recording, is scheduled to conclude on July 20, 2024. This methodology mirrors the 2011 Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC).
Facts for Prelims
- FactThe next Population Enumeration (PE) phase of the Census is scheduled to begin in February 2027.
- FactThe last census to include comprehensive caste data was conducted in 1931.
- BodyThe Census of India is the primary agency responsible for conducting the national population count.
- FactThe 'open column' method for caste recording was previously utilized in the 2011 Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC).
For Mains
Q. Discuss the socio-political implications of including caste data in the upcoming Census and its role in formulating inclusive welfare policies.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Data integrity: Risk of self-reporting inaccuracies in 'open columns' leading to skewed demographic representation
- Policy friction: Balancing the need for targeted reservation benefits with the constitutional goal of a casteless society
- Administrative burden: Complexity of processing and verifying diverse caste identities across different states
Keywords: Demographic profiling · Social stratification · Data-driven governance · Inclusive development · Identity politics
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This note is generated automatically from SatyaDheesh's news feed and mapped to the UPSC CSE syllabus. Check facts against the original report or PIB before using them in an answer.