Caste, COVID vaccine, bank accounts, voter/aadhaar: The big changes in census 2027
For the first time since Independence, India’s Census will record the caste of all respondents, making Census 2027 one of the most significant demographic exercises in the country’s history. The new questionnaire expand
For the first time since Independence, India’s Census will record the caste of all respondents, making Census 2027 one of the most significant demographic exercises in the country’s history.
The new questionnaire expands from 29 categories in Census 2011 to 40 questions and includes information on caste, digital literacy, Aadhaar, mobile numbers, bank accounts, voter IDs, passports and more.
But why is the caste question creating political debate? How will the open-column system work? And what lessons has the government drawn from the 2011 Socio-Economic and Caste Census?
In this explainer, we break down the biggest changes in Census 2027, why they matter, and what they could mean for policymaking, welfare schemes and representation in India.
More from India
Independence Day LIVE updates: PM Modi calls for manufacturing sector boost, lays out seven-point reform framework
PM Modi urges self-reliance, calls upon citizens to realise 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047
Independence Day 2026 | Jagat Murari and FTII: Where India’s filmmaking rebels were made
On India’s 80th Independence Day, the enduring legacy of Jagat Murari, FTII’s former head, asks if public institutions can still nurture independent thinkers
Kerala’s Chokramudi hills to open for tourists as Neelakurinji blooms paint Munnar blue
Mass blooming of Neelakurinji this year is expected to be witnessed across Chokramudi hills, Idalimedu, and Meeshapulimala in Munnar
Ahead of Onam, Kerala Police seize 3,030 litres of illicit spirit in Thrissur
Police bust illicit liquor stockpiling operation; van driver arrested, key accused under scanner. Seizure as part of Operation Toofan