Census 2027 to Gather Comprehensive Data on LPG, Smartphone Usage Among 33 Key Parameters
The Registrar General of India (RGI) has issued a significant notification outlining the detailed information to be collected during the upcoming house-listing process for the Census of India 2027. This exercise will include crucial data points such as the usage of PNG, LPG, and smartphones, reflecting the evolving socio-economic landscape of the country.
Notification Details and Legal Framework
In a formal notification released on Thursday, Mritunjay Kumar Narayan, the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India, invoked the powers conferred by sub-section (1) of section 8 of the Census Act, 1948. This authorizes census officers to ask questions from all persons within their appointed local areas to gather information through the houselisting and housing census schedule. The notification specifies a comprehensive list of 33 items that will be covered during this process.
Key Parameters in the Census Questionnaire
The census questionnaire for 2027 has been meticulously designed to capture a wide array of household characteristics. Among the 33 items enumerated are:
- Building number and census house number for precise identification.
- Predominant materials used for the floor, wall, and roof of the census house, providing insights into housing quality.
- Ascertaining the use of the census house, whether residential, commercial, or other purposes.
- Availability of a kitchen and connections to LPG or PNG, highlighting energy access and cooking facilities.
- Access to internet services and ownership of devices such as laptops, computers, telephones, mobile phones, and smartphones, indicating digital penetration.
- Ownership of transportation means including bicycles, scooters, motorcycles, mopeds, cars, jeeps, and vans, reflecting mobility and economic status.
- Mobile numbers, collected solely for census communications to ensure efficient data collection and follow-up.
Finalization Process of the Census Questionnaire
The census questionnaire is not developed in isolation; it undergoes a rigorous finalization process based on inputs and suggestions from various stakeholders. Before each census exercise, different ministries, departments, organizations, and census data users contribute their insights to ensure the questionnaire is comprehensive and relevant. This collaborative approach helps in capturing data that aligns with current national priorities and developmental goals.
By incorporating details on modern amenities like LPG connections and smartphone usage, the Census of India 2027 aims to provide a nuanced understanding of household infrastructure and technological adoption across the country. This data will be instrumental in shaping future policies and initiatives aimed at improving living standards and bridging digital divides.
