India National Census 2026
Where Things Stand
India has started its first national census in 15 years to count 1.4 billion people. This 1.24 billion dollar project uses 3 million workers to collect data that decides how many seats each region gets in the legislature and how welfare money is spent. The count includes the first survey of caste groups in nearly a century and will take one year to finish.
Key Statements
“India begins its $1.24 billion national census to survey 1.4 billion people, including the first caste enumeration in nearly a century following a pandemic-related delay.”
This source provides the specific budget and highlights the historic inclusion of caste data.
“a $1.2 billion project involving 3 million workers to collect data that will determine legislative representation and affirmative action policies.”
This highlights the massive workforce required and the census's role in redrawing political lines.
News
How do you count 1.4 billion people? India is trying. - The Boston Globe
How Do You Count 1.4 Billion People? India Is Trying.
History's biggest census: Why India's new population count is controversial
India Begins Counting Over 1 Billion People in Digital Census
Analysis generated by AI. Always verify with official sources.