No population Census — in the dark without vital data

The Indian decadal Census, critical for capturing comprehensive demographic and socio-economic data, has been delayed by over three years. This delay undermines the reliability of existing surveys and hinders effective policy-making and program evaluation.

Importance of the Census

• Comprehensive Data Collection: The Census provides essential data beyond mere population counts, including detailed information on education, employment, health, and familial structures, which are vital for policy planning and implementation.
• Reliability of Surveys: Large-scale surveys like the National Family Health Survey rely on Census data for accuracy. Delaying the Census affects the reliability of these surveys and the validity of derived indicators.
• Impact on Development Indicators: Absence of current Census data compromises the generation of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) indicators, which depend on accurate population counts and demographic segmentation.

Consequences of Delay

• Misleading Program Evaluations: Without updated Census data, assessing the success and impact of government schemes and programs becomes problematic, leading to potentially misleading evaluations.
• Inaccurate Population Estimates: Relying on projections and extrapolations from outdated data can distort our understanding of demographic changes, affecting policy decisions and resource allocation.
• Urgency vs. Alternatives: Despite the availability of other statistical methods, these are insufficient substitutes for the comprehensive data provided by the Census, raising concerns about whether the delay is intentional.

Caste Census Debate

• Political Motivations: The call for a caste Census appears driven more by political motives than by genuine need for data on socio-economic inclusion, potentially skewing the focus away from broader demographic needs.
• Historical Context: Historical census practices show that caste auditing was initially included but later discontinued, suggesting that the current demand for caste Census may not align with its intended purpose.
• Focus on Development: Assessing socio-economic mobility and deprivation through education and occupation, rather than through caste-based audits alone, would offer a more comprehensive understanding of progress and needs.

Mains Question

Q. Discuss the implications of the delayed Census in India on policy-making and program evaluation.