India Registrar notifies 40 census questions for September 1 start in snow-bound areas

Why in news

The Registrar General of India notified 40 census questions for the upcoming population enumeration, notably including caste details for the first time via self-reporting.

Background

The census enumeration in snow-bound areas (including Ladakh) begins on September 1, with a self-enumeration phase from August 17-31. The Union Cabinet allocated a total budget of Rs 11,718 crore for the census operations.

Facts for Prelims

• FactTotal budget allocated for the census: Rs 11,718 crore
• FactSelf-enumeration period: August 17 to August 31
• BodyRegistrar General of India: The primary authority responsible for conducting the census in India
• FactCaste details to be collected for the first time based on self-reporting

For Mains

Q. Discuss the significance of the Census in formulating socio-economic policies and the challenges associated with collecting demographic data in geographically difficult terrains.

Dimensions to cover in your answer

• Data-driven policy making
• Logistical challenges in snow-bound regions
• Privacy vs. data collection
• Impact of caste data on reservation and welfare

Keywords: Demographic profile · Data-driven governance · Logistical hurdles · Self-enumeration · Socio-economic planning

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