Phase IFoundation
Background
Overview
Understanding the foundational data collection mechanism of the Indian state, its legal basis, administrative structure, and the challenges it faces in accurately capturing data for diverse and vulnerable populations, which directly impacts governance, social justice, and the effectiveness of welfare policies.
The Census of India is a decennial exercise conducted by the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India under the Ministry of Home Affairs, mandated by the Census Act, 1948. It is the primary source of comprehensive demographic, social, and economic data, crucial for policy formulation, planning, and resource allocation, particularly for welfare schemes targeting vulnerable populations.