Nagpur Launches Long-Awaited National Census After 16-Year Gap
After a prolonged delay of nearly 16 years since the last national headcount in 2011, the crucial Census exercise is finally set to commence in Nagpur starting May 1. The Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) is mobilizing substantial resources for this massive undertaking, preparing to deploy an army of 6,000 enumerators and 1,000 supervisors across the entire city.
Digital-First Approach with Two-Phase Implementation
This long-delayed census, which has missed its mandated 10-year cycle, will adopt a largely digital methodology conducted in two distinct phases. Municipal Commissioner Abhijeet Chaudhari, who chaired a comprehensive review meeting with in-charge officers and assistant commissioners on Thursday, emphasized that the Census represents a "national duty" requiring full participation from all departments.
Chaudhari announced the establishment of a dedicated Census Cell at NMC headquarters that will coordinate implementation, monitor progress continuously, and compile the extensive data collected throughout the process.
Structured Timeline for Citizen Participation
Additional Municipal Commissioner Vasumana Pant provided detailed insights into the operational timeline following the review meeting. "In the initial phase from May 1 to 15, citizens will have the opportunity to self-declare their details through online platforms," Pant explained. "Subsequently, from May 16 onward, field enumeration will commence with systematic door-to-door verification expected to continue for approximately one month, likely concluding around mid-June."
Officials clarified that each enumerator will receive specific jurisdictional assignments with fixed timelines for household coverage completion. To ensure seamless execution of both digital and field processes, the civic body will conduct multiple rounds of comprehensive training for in-charge officers, assistant commissioners, teachers, supervisors, and master trainers.
Strict Accountability Measures Implemented
Commissioner Chaudhari established clear expectations regarding accountability, stating unequivocally that there would be zero tolerance for delays or negligence. Weekly review sessions will meticulously track progress across all census operations, with disciplinary action initiated against any employees found shirking their responsibilities during this critical national exercise.
Significance for Urban Planning and Development
According to the 2011 Census data, Nagpur's population stood at 24,05,665 residents, comprising 12,25,405 males and 11,80,260 females. Officials emphasized that the updated demographic information gathered through this census will form the essential backbone for strategic planning regarding infrastructure development, housing initiatives, welfare scheme implementation, and civic amenities allocation over the coming decade.
Chaudhari reinforced the mandatory nature of participation, declaring, "Everyone has to participate. This is a national exercise and there will be no excuse," signaling that the entire civic machinery must approach this long-pending census with utmost urgency and seriousness.
