Digital Census 2026: Population enumeration begins on April 1; Know how to fill in your details online

New Delhi: The first phase of Census 2026 is scheduled to begin on April 1, 2026. The government has announced that, this time, the census will be entirely digital. Approximately 3 million (30 lakh) enumerators will collect data using a mobile application. If you wish, you also have the option to submit your details online during this first phase. Notably, you will be asked 33 questions during this initial phase.

An online portal has been launched specifically for this purpose, allowing individuals to enter their information themselves. To provide further assistance and information regarding this process, an FAQ section has been made available on the portal. It is worth noting that this phase of the census is referred to as "House Listing and Housing Census."

How to submit details during first phase of Census 2026?

- First, visit the official portal—se.census.gov.in—and select your state.
- Next, register by entering the name of the Head of the Household and their mobile number. It is important to note here that only one household can be registered per mobile number, and the name of the Head of the Household cannot be subsequently changed.
- Afterward, select your preferred language from the 16 languages ​​available.
- Proceed to complete the OTP verification process.
- Now, enter your precise address details. This involves dragging the red marker displayed on the map to pinpoint your exact location.
- Provide accurate answers to all 33 questions related to the house listing.
- Once you have entered all the data, review it thoroughly to ensure accuracy, and then click the 'Submit' button.
Please note that once the data has been submitted, you will not be able to make any further changes yourself.

How to tackle the questions?

If you choose to answer the Phase 1 questions online during Census 2026-27, you will be asked a total of 33 questions pertaining to your household and family. To prepare for this, you should primarily keep ready information regarding the status of your dwelling—such as the building and house number, and the materials used for the floor, walls, and roof—as well as details concerning the number of family members, the name of the Head of the Household, their gender, and their caste.

Additionally, you will be asked questions regarding household amenities and facilities, such as the primary source of drinking water, electricity supply, availability of a toilet, kitchen facilities, and the main cereal/food grain consumed by the household. In view of the digital landscape, information regarding internet access, laptops, mobile phones, and vehicles will also be collected.

What are the Points to Note?

When digitally filling out the first phase of the 2026 Census, please keep in mind that once you have entered the details of the Head of the Household, you will not be able to modify them. Similarly, after answering the questions asked in the form, please cross-check the information before submitting it, as you will not be able to make any changes to your responses once the form has been submitted. Prepare the answers to the aforementioned questions in advance to ensure that you do not face any difficulties while filling out the form.