The Indian government has announced that the next nationwide census will commence on March 1, 2027, marking a significant shift by including caste enumeration for the first time in over seven decades. In regions with harsh winter conditions like Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, the census will begin earlier in October 2026. This decision, approved by the Union Cabinet, aims to bring transparency and national consistency to caste data collection, addressing long-standing demands for accurate information to inform policy and ensure social justice.

The inclusion of caste data in the 2027 census represents a major policy change, particularly given the BJP's previous reluctance towards such measures. Historically, the party has viewed caste-based politics as potentially divisive. However, following state-level caste surveys in Bihar, Telangana, and Karnataka, which revealed that backward classes constitute a significant portion of the population, the national conversation shifted. These surveys highlighted the necessity for updated demographic data to address representation and welfare needs effectively.

The last comprehensive caste enumeration in India occurred under British rule between 1881 and 1931. Post-independence, India discontinued this practice, only counting Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) for administrative purposes. The Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC) in 2011 attempted to collect caste data, but its results were never officially published due to numerous discrepancies, including a vast number of caste entries and errors. This lack of reliable data has hindered effective policy formulation and targeted welfare schemes.

The primary objectives of including caste in the upcoming census are to facilitate informed policy-making, reassess reservation policies, and promote social justice. Updated caste data will enable the government to refine the allocation of welfare benefits and development programs based on current demographics. It will also allow for a fresh evaluation of the need and extent of quotas for various communities, as current reservation percentages are based on outdated or projected data. Ultimately, the goal is to foster more inclusive governance by providing visibility to marginalized and underrepresented communities within the OBC, SC, and ST categories.

Despite the potential benefits, the inclusion of caste data presents several operational and political challenges. One significant hurdle is the preparation of a national-level caste code directory, which is complicated by regional, linguistic, and sub-group variations in caste identities. Overlapping and disputed classifications across different state OBC lists further add to the complexity. Moreover, any inclusion or exclusion in caste lists is likely to spark political controversy, especially in states nearing elections.

Several concerns exist regarding a caste census in India. There is a risk of disproportionately excluding minorities within backward classes due to scale bias. Hyper-fragmentation could undermine affirmative action meant for historically oppressed groups. A lack of standardized caste list remains a key challenge, highlighted by the SECC 2011's open-ended self-reporting that led to millions of caste entries and errors. Misclassification of castes due to similar surnames or differing classifications across states can further complicate the census. The sensitivity of caste in India means that enumerators may avoid direct questions, relying on assumptions that can lead to inaccurate entries.

To ensure the accuracy and reliability of the caste census, several measures must be taken. A standardized caste code list is essential to avoid the errors and discrepancies that plagued the 2011 SECC. Enumerators need to be thoroughly trained to handle the complexities of caste identification and avoid relying on assumptions. Public awareness campaigns can help address privacy concerns and encourage citizens to share their caste details accurately.

The inclusion of caste enumeration in the 2027 census is a significant step towards data-driven governance and equitable policymaking. While it is likely to provide much-needed clarity on the demographic composition of India’s various caste groups, careful planning is crucial to ensure accuracy and avoid further social fragmentation.