India’s next national census, scheduled for 2027, will be conducted entirely through digital platforms, marking the first time the country moves away from the traditional paper-based method. Officials confirmed that enumerators will use a mobile app on smartphones, while citizens will also have the option to self-enumerate through an online portal.
The census will take place in two major phases: house-listing and the preparation of maps between April and September 2026, followed by population enumeration from February to March 2027. The new digital format will introduce several features, including geo-tagging of buildings, multilingual questionnaire support, and significantly expanded data collection on migration patterns. For the first time since 1931, caste details of all communities will be recorded, not just those of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
Authorities argue that the digital system will speed up data processing, reduce paperwork, and minimise errors. With real-time uploads, provisional figures could be available within days, and final data within months—much faster than previous census cycles. Officials also believe the digital shift will be more cost-effective, as enumerators can use their personal smartphones and no printing of paper schedules will be required.
However, experts warn that the digital divide across the country could lead to gaps in coverage, especially in rural areas where internet access and digital literacy remain limited. Concerns have also been raised about data privacy and the security of sensitive information, given the scale of digital storage involved. Self-enumeration, while convenient, may also pose challenges in ensuring accuracy and consistency.
Despite these concerns, the government views the digital census as a major modernisation step. If implemented smoothly, the 2027 census could become India’s most efficient and comprehensive demographic survey to date.