Telangana to Launch First State Census Since Formation from April 26

For the first time since the formation of Telangana, the state is set to undertake a comprehensive population census . Although the state was formed in 2014, the last census was conducted in 2011 in the undivided state, marking a gap of nearly 16 years before Telangana carries out this historic exercise independently.

With the national Census scheduled for 2027 , preliminary processes will begin this year. According to Census Operations Director Bharati Holikeri , around 1,00,000 personnel are being deployed for this massive exercise. Nearly 94,000 staff members have already been trained in both digital and physical data collection methods.

This time, the census will leverage modern technology , with the introduction of a “self-enumeration” system as a key feature. Citizens will be able to submit their details online between April 26 and May 10, 2026 . Overall, the census is expected to be a large-scale logistical operation .

The census will be conducted in two phases .

The first phase, known as the House Listing and Housing Census (HLO) , will run from April to September 2026 . During this phase, data will be collected on housing conditions, available amenities, and household assets through 33 specific questions . A 15-day self-enumeration window will also be provided before the commencement of door-to-door surveys.

The second phase, called the Population Enumeration (PE) , will be conducted in February 2027 . This phase will capture individual-level data , including personal, social, economic, educational, migration, and fertility details . Notably, Holikeri confirmed that, along with SC and ST categories, caste details of every individual will also be recorded.

This census is crucial for scientifically assessing population growth and social changes in Telangana since its formation. It will serve as the basis for resource allocation across 33 districts, formulation of new welfare schemes, and delimitation of constituencies.

The data will also help the government redefine development goals and identify backward regions. Officials have urged all citizens to actively participate in this historic process, which is expected to become a milestone in Telangana’s history .