BS EDIT: India’s Long-Delayed Census Gets a Date

By Business StandardPublished On Jun 6, 2025

Census Timeline Out

Two phases announced:

• Hill states: by Oct 1, 2026

• Rest of India: by Mar 1, 2027

Delayed since 2021, the count finally resumes

Why It’s Crucial

• India’s economy and cities have transformed

• Surveys rely on outdated 2011 data

• Census will bring much-needed clarity

Caste in Focus

• Caste data to be collected after 93 years

• Could reshape reservations and politics

• May spark demand for sub-categorisation

Rising Political Risk

• Caste data may deepen group rivalries

• Parties must handle findings with care

Delimitation Looms

• Lok Sabha seats to be redrawn post-Census

• Women’s quota depends on it

• Southern states fear losing ground

Big Impact Ahead

The 2027 Census isn’t just about numbers—

It will redefine policy, power, and politics