Census 2027 Maharashtra: First Phase Commences May 16 with Mandatory 33 Questions
The inaugural phase of Census 2027 is scheduled to begin in Maharashtra on May 16, 2024, marking a critical national data collection exercise. Citizens across the state will be required to respond to all 33 questions posed by enumerators during their doorstep visits, as per official directives.
Comprehensive House Listing and Housing Operations
The queries, which focus extensively on living conditions, amenities, and asset ownership, will form the foundation of the house listing and housing operations. A massive deployment of 2.6 lakh officials has been planned across Maharashtra to ensure the census duties are carried out efficiently and comprehensively.
A formal notification issued on February 26, 2024, confirms that the house-listing phase will continue until June 14, providing a structured timeline for data gathering.
Digital Self-Enumeration Window: May 1 to May 15
In a significant modernization move, a self-enumeration window from May 1 to May 15 will enable residents to submit their details online prior to the enumerators' physical visits. Details filled through self-enumeration will be verified and validated by enumerators using a unique reference number generated after online submission, a senior state official explained to media outlets on Wednesday.
The district administrations have been instructed to create adequate awareness about the exercise to mitigate potential non-cooperation and resistance from certain housing societies. Public awareness campaigns are set to intensify in the coming weeks to guarantee maximum participation.
Legal Obligations and Penalties for Non-Cooperation
Officials have underscored the legal imperative of cooperation. Stopping, hindering, or failing to cooperate with census activities constitutes a criminal offence under the Census Act, 1948, and can result in penalties, including fines and imprisonment. The Ministry of Home Affairs has emphasized that both the public and government officials are legally bound to participate in this national exercise.
Extensive Training and Digital Preparedness
Authorities are conducting extensive training at multiple levels for master trainers, field trainers, enumerators, and supervisors. Pre-test exercises have been executed in sample areas to evaluate digital platforms and field readiness.
All census functionaries are being sensitized and trained to maintain neutrality, handle personal questions with sensitivity, and ensure strict confidentiality of data, a state official affirmed.
Enumerators are equipped with a thorough understanding of census concepts and questionnaires, along with technical proficiency in digital platforms such as the Census Management and Monitoring System, Houselisting Block (HLB) Creator, and operations app.
Critical Importance of Accurate Data
Accurate responses are paramount, as the data collected during this phase will establish the base for the population enumeration in 2027. The success of the counting exercise hinges on public cooperation. People are earnestly requested to answer the questions and assist enumerators during their visits patiently, an official stated.
One Portal, One Reference ID System
Households will have the opportunity to complete the census questionnaire online via the official self-enumeration portal, which will be accessible 15 days before the commencement of house-listing operations. The portal supports 16 languages, including Hindi, English, and 14 regional languages such as Marathi.
Respondents can log in using their cellphone number, validated through a one-time password. Upon submission, a confirmation with a unique ID will be generated, which enumerators will cross-check during physical verification.
Detailed Questionnaire Components
- Building Details: Includes building number, materials used for floor, wall, and roof, condition, and usage of the structure.
- Household Details: Covers number of residents, name and gender of the head of the household, SC/ST/other status, ownership status, and the number of dwelling rooms.
- Amenities: Encompasses source and availability of drinking water, lighting source, toilet access and type, wastewater outlet, bathing facilities, kitchen availability, and LPG/PNG connections.
- Assets and Lifestyle Indicators: Questions on possession of radio, television, internet access, laptop, computer, phones, smartphones, and vehicles like bicycle, scooter, and car.
- Additional Information: Includes number of married couples in the household, main cereal consumed, and availability of a cellphone for communication.
This meticulous data collection aims to provide a robust foundation for national planning and development initiatives, reflecting the evolving socio-economic landscape of Maharashtra and India at large.
