NEW DELHI: The government on Wednesday announced that the next nationwide census will commence on March 1, 2027. However, in Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, and Uttarakhand, the census process is expected to begin earlier, from October 2026.The nationwide census will also for the first time in over seven decades, include caste enumeration. The move marks a major policy shift, with the Centre saying that the decision was made to ensure transparency, national consistency, and to address growing demands for accurate caste data.Also read: What is caste census, and why does it matter – explainedUnion Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw had confirmed the development during a Cabinet briefing on April 30, saying that the cabinet committee on political affairs had approved the inclusion of caste data in the main census.Vaishnaw further noted that while Article 246 of the Constitution lists census as a Union subject, states have taken varied approaches to caste-based surveys. “Some states have conducted surveys transparently, but others have not. These inconsistencies have raised doubts and could disturb social harmony,” he said. The minister added that the new decision would ensure that the country’s social fabric is protected from political misuse.The upcoming caste census follows years of political debate and delayed decisions. The last national effort to collect caste-related data was through the Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC) in 2011 under the UPA government. However, that data was never fully published or utilised, drawing criticism from social activists and political parties alike. Caste enumeration in India was last comprehensively carried out under British rule between 1881 and 1931.Experts believe the renewed effort is crucial. “A caste census is critical to uncover structural inequalities and design inclusive policies,” said Poonam Muttreja, executive director of the Population Foundation of India had said while speaking to PTI.