Archive · 12 Jun 2025
India's 2027 Census May Include Caste Data
India is planning a census in 2027, potentially including caste data collection.
This would be the first time such data has been collected nationally since 1931.
The census aims to gather detailed information about different caste groups, especially the OBC population, but faces challenges due to the complexities of self-identification and evolving caste categories.
The census might affect the way people see their own identities.
India's 2027 Census may include caste enumeration, providing caste data at the national level after 1931.
Demand for a caste census has grown, especially from the Congress and other political entities.
A key objective of the caste census is to estimate the size and composition of the OBC population.
Self-identification of social identity can be tricky, impacting the accuracy of caste data.
The census, while providing vital data, could alter social identities by imposing order through pre-set lists.
- Who
- The government of India.
- What
- India's 2027 Census may include caste enumeration.
- When
- The 2027 Census is planned.
- Where
- India
- Why
- To collect demographic data and understand the composition of India's population, including caste groups.
Challenges
Opportunities
Challenges in accurate caste data collection
Challenges
Self-identification of social identity can be tricky, influencing data.
Opportunities
Imposing order through pre-set lists risks un- or mis-representing millions.
- Census Year
- 2027
- Caste Data
- Potentially Included
- Last Caste Census
- 1931
- OBC Population Focus
- Estimation of size and composition
