Billion-plus people, three million officials, 33 questions - India begins huge census

What Happened

India begins its 16th census on Wednesday, counting over 1.4 billion people using three million officials. The two-phase exercise spans 33 questions about housing, income, and demographics. For the first time, the census will be conducted digitally via mobile apps and a 16-language online portal. The first phase covers housing conditions; the second phase in February 2027 will include caste data collection. Initial rollout begins in six selected regions including Delhi, Goa, and Karnataka.

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