Government releases 33 FAQs for first phase of Census

If a cohabiting couple considers their relationship to be a stable union, they should be treated as a married couple for the Census, according to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) provided on the personal enumeration portal.

A portal has been opened for people who choose to self-enumerate during the census. It will be available in both phases of the Census: Household Listing and Housing Enumeration (HLO) and Population Census.

The portal has a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) to make it easier for the public to answer questions asked during the country’s 16th Census.

Also Read | Census 2027: How to self-enumerate – step by step guide

“Will a couple in a live-in relationship be considered a married couple? If they view their relationship as a stable union, they should be treated as a married couple,” the FAQ states.

The government has announced 33 questions that will be asked to citizens in the first phase of the Census and housing census, starting from April 1, 2026.

Questions such as the material used in the flooring and roof of the house, the number of married couples living here, the gender of the head of the household, the type of grain consumed, access to basic and modern needs, and the types of vehicles owned will be put forward in the first stage.

Questions will start by asking for the building number (municipal or local authority or census number), census house number, and the predominant material used on the floor, walls and roof of the house.

Enumerators will then ask questions about the home’s use, condition, and the number of people normally living in the home.

Officials will also collect information such as the name and gender of the head of the household, whether the head of the household belongs to Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe or other communities, and property status.