Amit Shah on Thursday soft-launched digital tools for the upcoming Census 2027 in New Delhi and officially unveiled the census mascots “Pragati” (female) and “Vikas” (male). The initiative marks a significant step towards conducting India’s next population census using modern digital technologies.
World’s Largest Census to Be Conducted in Two Phases
The process for Census of India 2027 formally began after the Government issued a Gazette notification on June 16, 2025. The upcoming exercise is expected to be the world’s largest census operation, covering the entire population of India.
For the first time, the census will be conducted completely through digital platforms, allowing respondents to also opt for self-enumeration.
Online Self-Enumeration Facility Introduced
To facilitate self-enumeration, a secure web-based portal has been developed where citizens can enter their details online in 16 languages before the door-to-door survey begins.
After completing the online registration, respondents will receive a unique self-enumeration ID, which can be shared with census enumerators to verify the information submitted digitally.
Four Major Digital Platforms Launched
During the event, four key digital platforms developed by Centre for Development of Advanced Computing were launched to streamline the census process. These include:
- National Household Listing Block Creator (NLBC) Web Application
- HLO Mobile Application
- Self-Enumeration Portal
- Census Management and Monitoring System Portal
These platforms will improve planning, data collection, monitoring, transparency and accuracy during the census operation.
Mascots ‘Pragati’ and ‘Vikas’ Symbolise Inclusive Growth
The official mascots Pragati and Vikas have been designed as friendly and relatable symbols to promote awareness about the census.
They also represent equal participation of women and men in India’s development journey, aligning with the national vision of transforming India into a developed nation by 2047.
First Phase of Census to Begin in April 2026
The first phase of Census 2027 will take place between April and September 2026, focusing on house listing and housing-related data collection.
The second phase, scheduled for February 2027, will involve population enumeration, where detailed social, economic and demographic information of individuals will be recorded across the country.
Around 30 Lakh Personnel to Participate
Approximately 30 lakh enumerators, supervisors and officials will be involved in the nationwide exercise. They will collect data through secure mobile applications during door-to-door surveys.
The government aims to ensure that the upcoming census is more accurate, secure and comprehensive through the extensive use of digital technology.
Senior officials including the Union Home Secretary and the Registrar General & Census Commissioner of India were also present at the launch event.
