Census in state to begin on April 17: Dy CM

Patna: The much-awaited Census 2027 will be conducted across the state in two phases over a period of 45 days, said deputy CM and revenue and land reforms minister Vijay Kumar Sinha on Saturday.“Self-enumeration will take place in the first phase from April 17 to May 1, followed by a house-to-house survey and house listing from May 2 to 31,” he said and emphasised that this entire process will be completely confidential, as per the Census Act of 1948.The deputy CM said the census cell of the revenue and land reforms department will complete the process in the state. The 2027 Census will also include data on caste, in addition to standard population metrics.The Centre recently informed Parliament that the first-phase, known as house listing, collects information on residential status, property, and household facilities. The second-phase gathers detailed demographic, socioeconomic and cultural information about individuals, including questions on caste.Meanwhile, Sinha appealed to all circle officers (COs) and revenue officers associated with the revenue service to immediately return to their respective workplaces. He said it is a matter of satisfaction that a large number of officers have resumed their duties in various districts on Saturday.Sinha said if any officer is found absent on Monday, strict disciplinary action will be taken against them. Principal secretary CK Anil and secretary Jai Singh will review the situation through a videoconference on Monday. The govt has accepted their demands after the COs and revenue officers went on an indefinite strike earlier this week.