Maharashtra Prepares for Landmark Digital Census 2027 with May Rollout
In a significant administrative move, Maharashtra is poised to initiate the first phase of the nationwide Census 2027 through a meticulously planned two-step process commencing in May. This exercise represents the state's inaugural foray into a fully digital census framework, leveraging technology to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
Structured Timeline for Census Operations
Officials confirmed on Tuesday that the census activities will unfold with a clear schedule. The initial stage involves self-enumeration, allowing citizens to voluntarily input their personal details on the official census portal from May 1 to May 15. Subsequently, from May 16 to June 15, enumerators will conduct comprehensive house listing surveys through door-to-door visits. A formal notification detailing this timeline is expected to be issued imminently.
Adhering to the Census of India guidelines, states have the flexibility to execute the first phase anytime between April 1 and September 30. Maharashtra's decision to begin in May aligns with this window, ensuring compliance with national protocols while optimizing local logistical preparations.
Focus on Self-Enumeration and House Listing
A senior state government official elaborated that this phase will concentrate exclusively on self-enumeration and house listing. "Citizens will have the opportunity to enter their details on the census portal between May 1 and 15. Following this period, enumerators will initiate household visits for the house listing survey, which includes approximately 33 questions," the official stated. This dual approach aims to maximize participation while maintaining thorough data collection.
Extensive Training and Digital Infrastructure
Maharashtra has embarked on an ambitious training program for nearly 2.6 lakh government personnel to facilitate this digital transition. The training, which commenced in January, will continue until early May. Utilizing a cascaded model, national and master trainers are being educated first, followed by field trainers and then enumerators. Training sessions for field trainers are scheduled to occur in Pune next month, ensuring a streamlined knowledge transfer.
For the first time in the state's census history, enumerators will record data entirely through a dedicated cellphone application, eliminating traditional paper forms. "Both online and offline data entry methods will be permitted to accommodate varying connectivity scenarios. District-level training sessions are currently ongoing, and senior officials are conducting online review meetings with municipal commissioners and district collectors to monitor progress and address operational challenges," another official explained.
Pilot Project and Preparatory Measures
The state recently conducted a pilot project to rigorously test the digital census system. This trial identified and resolved issues pertaining to technology and field operations prior to the full-scale rollout. To ensure inclusivity, individuals unable to self-enumerate online will be covered through traditional door-to-door visits, guaranteeing comprehensive population coverage.
Earlier this month, the chief secretary chaired the inaugural state-level Census Coordination Committee meeting for Maharashtra, attended by officials from the Directorate of Census Operations. During this session, departments were instructed to ensure the timely appointment and training of field staff. A detailed roadmap was also formulated, encompassing:
- Deployment of lakhs of field personnel across the state.
- Utilization of a dedicated questionnaire for house listing.
- Implementation of mobile app–based data collection.
- Establishment of robust security protocols for the large-scale digital exercise.
This preparatory phase underscores Maharashtra's commitment to executing a seamless and secure census, setting a precedent for digital governance in demographic surveys.
