Census 2027 begins in AP from today, over 9 lakh opt for self-enumeration

Vijayawada: The first phase of Census 2027 is set to roll out across Andhra Pradesh from Friday, with officials expressing confidence following an encouraging response to the self-enumeration drive conducted earlier this month.Ahead of the field exercise, nearly 9.5 lakh residents completed self-enumeration between April 15 and 30, accounting for about 6.8% of the population. In several Assembly constituencies, participation has reached nearly 12%, indicating growing awareness among citizens about the importance of the Census.Speaking to TOI, J Nivas, director of Census Operations AP, described the Census as a critical national exercise. "The Census is conducted once every 10 years and provides comprehensive data on population, housing and socio-economic conditions. This data becomes the foundation for governance and policy decisions," he said.The Census, originally scheduled for 2021, was postponed due to COVID-19. "Because of this delay, the upcoming Census assumes even greater importance in capturing current realities," Nivas noted.He said extensive preparations have been completed across the state. "Training has been provided at all levels — from senior officials to field enumerators. We are fully prepared to begin the house listing phase," he stated.From Friday, enumerators will visit households over a 30-day period as part of the house listing process. Each enumerator is expected to cover around 180 houses, averaging six households per day. Ward secretariat staff will play a major role in carrying out the survey across both urban and rural areas.Explaining the process, Nivas said, "Each house will be assigned a unique number, and basic details will be collected, including the type of house, ownership status and access to facilities such as electricity, water, television and internet."He clarified that no personal documents are required. "There is no need to provide Aadhaar or any other identification. The Census does not collect sensitive personal identifiers," he said.Addressing concerns about data usage, Nivas emphasised confidentiality. "All information collected is protected under law and will not be shared with anyone. It will not be used to remove welfare benefits or target individuals. People should not believe rumours," he added.He also clarified that individuals must register at their current place of residence. "Even if someone is working or studying away from their hometown, they should be counted where they live," he explained.Enumerators will carry official identity cards and census kits for easy identification. Officials have warned that obstructing the process or providing false information may invite legal action.Nivas urged citizens to cooperate with the exercise. "Accurate data depends on public participation. We request every household to extend full support to enumerators," he said.