Delhi is set to roll out the first phase of the national Census from April 16, introducing a fully digital system for the first time. Moving away from conventional paper-based methods, officials will use a mobile application and an online portal to collect and verify data.
The exercise will be conducted in two phases, with survey teams visiting households and gathering detailed information through a structured questionnaire.
The Census process in the capital has been divided geographically into two parts. The initial phase, termed the House Listing Operation, will be carried out between April 16 and May 15 in areas under the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) and Delhi Cantonment. The second phase will follow from May 16 to June 15, covering all regions under the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), where enumerators will conduct door-to-door surveys.
Authorities have also enabled a self-enumeration option for residents who prefer to submit their details online instead of waiting for field staff. The online portal for NDMC areas remained open until April 15, while residents in MCD areas will be able to access the facility from May 1 to May 15.
The Census questionnaire includes 33 questions designed not only to determine the number of people in each household but also to assess living conditions and access to basic amenities.
Respondents will be asked about the condition of their homes, including whether the structure is permanent or temporary and the materials used for construction. Ownership status-whether the house is owned or rented-will also be recorded. Questions will further cover essential services such as sources of drinking water, availability of electricity, and sanitation facilities, including the presence and type of toilets.
The survey will also gather information on household arrangements, such as the presence of a separate kitchen and the type of cooking fuel used, including LPG, PNG, or firewood.
In addition, data on assets and connectivity will be collected, including ownership of electronic devices like radios, televisions, computers, laptops, and access to the internet. Details about vehicles, including bicycles, scooters, motorcycles, and cars, will also form part of the survey. Mobile numbers will be collected for communication and verification purposes.