India Begins National Census, Includes Caste Data

India has commenced the world's largest national population count, a yearlong process that was delayed from 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This census, the first since 2011, is expected to record over 1.4 billion people, confirming India's status as the most populous nation, as estimated by the United Nations Population Fund in 2023. The exercise is being conducted in two phases: the first focuses on housing and living conditions, and the second, starting in February next year, will gather detailed social and economic characteristics, including caste data for the first time since 1931. The inclusion of caste data is a significant and contentious aspect, with supporters arguing it will provide an updated picture of inequality and inform affirmative action policies, while critics fear it could heighten social tensions. The census results, expected by March 2027, will underpin the distribution of government welfare programs, public policies, and could lead to a redrawing of India's political map, potentially increasing legislative seats to reflect population growth and implementing a 2023 law reserving one-third of seats for women. The process involves over 3 million government workers and utilizes a digital approach with a smartphone application and self-entry option.