Census to Enumerate Castes in Ladakh and Snow-Bound Areas from September 1

Why in news

The Registrar General of India announced the second phase of the census for Ladakh and snow-bound regions, which includes the enumeration of castes.

Background

The census for Ladakh and snow-bound areas in J&K, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand will occur from September 1 to 30, 2024. The reference date for data collection is October 1, 2026. Caste enumeration was approved by the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs in April 2022.

Facts for Prelims

• FactCensus reference date for this phase: October 1, 2026
• PlaceSnow-bound areas covered: Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand
• BodyRegistrar General of India: Head of the Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner
• FactSelf-enumeration period: August 17 to 31

For Mains

Q. Discuss the significance of caste enumeration in the census for inclusive policy formulation and social justice in India.

Dimensions to cover in your answer

• Data-driven policy making
• Social justice and reservation
• Demographic accuracy

Keywords: Demographic profiling · Social justice · Data-driven governance · Inclusive growth

More Indian Society notes

• Tamil Nadu Assembly Unanimously Adopts Resolution for Tamil Thai Vazhthu First Before Programs · 10 August 2026
• Karnataka plans to restructure the Bengaluru City Police (BCP) into five commissionerates · 7 August 2026
• Water crisis in cities needs new strategies, not just better management: report · 7 August 2026
• Karnataka orders all-women law team for historic Dharwad bench appearance · 30 July 2026
• Urban fires rage as outdated rules and lax enforcement put millions at risk · 24 July 2026
• Census self-enumeration in Tamil Nadu: CM Vijay, Governor Arlekar appeal for active public participation · 17 July 2026

All Indian Society current affairs →