JC Ilakkiya urges public participation in Census self-enumeration drive

Vijayawada Joint Collector S. Ilakkiya has urged citizens to actively take part in the self-enumeration process launched as part of the first phase of the 2027 Census . Noting that the facility will remain available till April 30 , she appealed to every household to register their details on their own. She emphasised that public participation is crucial for the successful conduct of the Census, which serves as a guiding framework for the nation’s progress.

To raise awareness about self-enumeration, the district administration organised a 5K run in the city. The event was flagged off by Joint Collector Ilakkiya along with Self-Enumeration JD Prasanna Kumar . A large number of students, officials, and youth participated, spreading awareness about the importance of the Census.

Speaking on the occasion, Ilakkiya said that self-enumeration has been introduced for the first time in the history of the Census. She noted that this method enables citizens to submit their own data, ensuring greater accuracy and reduced errors . People can easily register their details through the official website https://se.census.gov.in , which will help save time and allow officials to carry out quicker verification during field surveys.

She explained that through self-enumeration, citizens can voluntarily provide information on 34 parameters , including building number, number of family members, housing ownership status, source of drinking water, and availability of facilities such as internet and television. These details, she said, will play a key role in comprehensive planning by the government.

The Census is a comprehensive exercise that collects demographic, social, cultural, and economic data of every individual in the country. This data serves as a vital reference for policymakers, administrators, and researchers. Officials stated that advanced digital technologies will be used this time to ensure the process is conducted faster and with greater accuracy , while maintaining the highest standards of data security .

The Census will be conducted in two phases . The first phase, House Listing and Housing Census , will be carried out between April and September 2026 in every state and Union Territory for a duration of 30 days . A 15-day window for self-enumeration will be provided prior to fieldwork. This phase will collect data on housing conditions, amenities, and assets.

The second phase, Population Enumeration , will take place in February 2027 , covering details related to population, socio-economic and cultural aspects, migration, and births. In snow-bound regions such as Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh , the process will be conducted in September 2026 , considering weather conditions.