Census 2027: Caste Column Added in Test Enumeration Phase

The government's Census 2027 rehearsal phase includes an 'open column' to record caste data, marking the re-introduction of caste enumeration after it was suspended since 2021. This is significant as Census 2011 did not enumerate caste for general population (only for SCs/STs), and the 2021 Census entirely skipped caste collection.

Background: Caste data collection was discontinued in 1931 Census. Census 2011 collected limited caste data only for SC/ST populations. Political pressure from multiple states and social organizations led the government to reconsider caste enumeration. A Supreme Court-monitored test exercise is underway to determine feasible methodology.

Key Features: (1) Open-column format allows respondents to write caste/community in their own words; (2) Final methodology will be developed after analyzing feedback from test enumeration; (3) Likely to generate massive dataset on caste demography for the first time in 90 years.

Why It Matters: Caste-based Census data will enable evidence-based policymaking on reservations, welfare schemes, and social justice programs. It could reshape debates on OBC quota, backward classes identification, and affirmative action frameworks.

Exam Angle: UPSC Mains essays on caste in modern India, administrative law questions on Census methodology, socio-political implications. Also relevant for data collection policies, constitutional law on equality (Articles 14-16), and SC/ST welfare scheme design.