In Census rehearsal, open column for recording caste
The rehearsal for India's 2027 Population Census includes an open column for caste data, marking a potential shift in enumeration methodology. This pre-test phase is being conducted across 16 states to refine digital procedures before the nationwide rollout.
Why it matters
Caste-based enumeration is a highly sensitive and significant political issue in India, with major implications for social policy and reservation systems.
The rehearsal for the second phase of Census, which started in 16 States and Union Territories on Monday (July 6, 2026), has an “open column” for respondents to record their castes, several officials involved in the exercise told The Hindu .
The report provides factual details about the census process and quotes official sources without taking a stance on the policy.
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