In a significant development, the Central Government has indicated that the next Census of India is set to commence in 2025, following delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This long-awaited census, which traditionally occurs every ten years, is projected to be completed by 2026, with the final population figures expected to be released later that year. The government has reportedly begun preparations for this national exercise, which aims to gather comprehensive demographic data essential for policy-making and resource allocation.
The last census, originally scheduled for 2021, was postponed due to the pandemic, marking a four-year gap since the last collection of such critical information. While an official confirmation from the Central Government is still pending, sources suggest that the census process will initiate in 2025. According to reports from Hindustan Times, the timeline is aligned with the government's plans to conduct a study on the delimitation of Lok Sabha (House of the People) seats following the census. This exercise will play a crucial role in understanding the changes in the country’s demographic landscape.
In the backdrop of this announcement, opposition leaders, particularly from the Congress Party, have intensified their demands for a caste-based census. They argue that such a measure would provide a clearer picture of the population distribution among various castes and tribes. However, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party has resisted these calls, emphasizing a non-caste-based approach. As India gears up for this monumental event, the upcoming census promises to provide insights into the nation’s population growth and demographic shifts, ultimately shaping the country’s future policies and development strategies.