Daily Hot Topic
Topic : Delayed Census in India
GS-1 Mains : Society
Revision Notes
Context:
- India is among a few countries that haven’t conducted the latest Census (last one in 2011).
What is a Census?
- Periodic collection of demographic, economic, and social data of a population.
- Used by governments to understand population characteristics and living conditions.
- Crucial data for planning public services, allocating funding, and making informed decisions.
Census in India:
- Conducted regularly since 1871 (complete Census in 1881).
- Initial focus: Revenue and taxation (British rule).
- Evolved to include demographics, social, and economic data.
- Constitutional Mandate: Conducted under Census Act of 1948.
- Frequency: Decennial (every 10 years).
- Last Census: 2011.
Significance of Census:
- Policy Formulation: Education, healthcare, infrastructure, social welfare.
- Resource Allocation: Equitable distribution based on demographics and socio-economic conditions.
- Demographic Trends: Urbanization, migration, population growth.
- Monitoring Development Goals: SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals).
Reasons for Delay:
- COVID-19 Pandemic: Disrupted scheduling and planning.
- Preparation and Planning: Requires meticulous planning, resource mobilization, coordination.
- Political and Administrative Priorities: Focus on other activities or elections.
- Technological and Methodological Upgradation: Updating data collection, processing, and analysis methods.
- Data Collection Complexity: Geographical, language, cultural, and socio-economic diversity.
Impact of Delay:
- Outdated Data: Census 2011 data is no longer accurate.
- Welfare Schemes: Schemes like PDS (Public Distribution System) rely on population estimates.
- Mortality Data Validation: Census data needed to validate mortality estimates during COVID-19.
- Demographic Changes: Urbanization and migration trends may not be captured adequately.
Conclusion:
- Accurate Census data is crucial for effective governance.
- The Union government needs to prioritize conducting the Census to ensure smooth planning and implementation of policies and programs.
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