The first phase of Census 2027, which includes house listing and housing data collection, commenced across Chhattisgarh on May 1, 2026. This month-long digital exercise aims to capture key demographic and housing details using modern technology.
Massive Deployment of Personnel
The state government has appointed 51,300 enumerators and 9,000 supervisors for this task. These officials are visiting households across the state to collect data on 33 parameters, including housing conditions, household amenities, and assets.
Digital Shift in Census Methodology
This census marks a significant shift from traditional paper-based methods as it is being conducted entirely through digital means. Enumerators are using a dedicated mobile application to record information in real time, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
Strict Action Against Negligence
The administration has taken a firm stand against negligence in census duties. The Raipur Municipal Corporation issued notices to 44 employees who remained absent from duty, citing provisions under the Census Act 1948 and the Chhattisgarh Civil Services (Conduct) Rules. Officials emphasized that obstructing census work or refusing to perform assigned duties is a punishable offence.
Early Success in Challenging Terrain
Despite difficult terrain, the campaign has seen early success. An enumerator in Gatam village, under Tokapal tehsil of Bastar district, completed the first day's work ahead of schedule. District collectors and municipal commissioners inspected field operations on the opening day to monitor progress.
Positive Response to Self-Enumeration
The state has also received a positive response to the self-enumeration facility. Between April 16 and April 30, a total of 1,49,862 families used the web portal to submit their own data, reducing the workload on enumerators.
Confidentiality of Data Assured
The Directorate of Census Operations has assured citizens that personal information collected under the Census Act 1948 will remain confidential. This data cannot be used as evidence in tax probes, police investigations, or court cases. Individual details are exempt from disclosure even under the Right to Information Act. The statistics will be used only for national planning and the formulation of welfare schemes.
The administration has urged residents to cooperate with enumerators and provide accurate information to ensure the success of the census.
