New Delhi: India is set to roll out its first-ever fully digital Census beginning April 1, 2026, marking a major shift in how population data is collected across the country. The exercise will introduce a self-enumeration feature, allowing citizens to submit their details online without the need for physical documents.

The Census will be conducted in two phases. The first phase, starting April 2026, will focus on housing data collection across all 36 states and union territories. The second phase, scheduled for 2027, will gather detailed population information, including caste data.

In a significant departure from past practices, residents will get a 15-day window to complete self-enumeration online before officials begin traditional door-to-door verification. Authorities say this hybrid model aims to improve accuracy while making the process more convenient for citizens.

Officials have assured that strong safeguards will be in place to protect personal data. All information collected during the exercise will remain confidential under the provisions of the Census Act, 1948.

Backed by a budget allocation of Rs.11,718.24 crore, the digital Census is expected to streamline data collection, reduce paperwork, and enhance efficiency through the use of technology.

The upcoming Census will be the first nationwide enumeration since 2011, and is being seen as a crucial step towards modernising India’s statistical systems.

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