Caste Details Included for the First Time in Upcoming Census 2027 Questionnaire

The central government has released the official questionnaire and notification for the upcoming 2027 Census, marking a historic shift by including caste-related inquiries for the first time in post-independent India.

Key Highlights:
- 40-Question Framework: The comprehensive questionnaire covers demographic, educational, economic, and migration details, along with specific questions on scheduled castes, scheduled tribes, and general caste information without a pre-determined list.
- Phased Schedule: The exercise includes an early phase for snow-bound regions starting September 2026, while housing listing and population counts proceed digitally via mobile apps and self-enumeration options.
- Historical Context: While regular caste enumerations were conducted during British rule until 1931, post-independence censuses limited detailed counts primarily to SC and ST communities for reservation and constitutional purposes.