India’s Census Goes Digital: Apps and Self-Enumeration Portal Live
In a major push to modernize India’s census process, the government has launched two mobile apps and a self-enumeration test portal for the upcoming 2021 Census and National Population Register (NPR). The initiative, led by the Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner, aims to streamline data collection through digital tools.
Key Features of the Census and NPR Mobile Apps
- Census Mobile App: Designed for enumerators to conduct door-to-door surveys digitally, replacing paper forms. Supports offline data entry and multilingual interfaces.
- NPR Mobile App: Focuses on updating the National Population Register, a critical database for government schemes and security.
Self-Enumeration Portal: A First for India
For the first time, citizens can self-report their household details online via the test portal. Here’s how it works:
1. Register using a mobile number and OTP verification.
2. Enter details like family members’ names, age, education, and occupation.
3. Submit and receive a reference ID for verification.
Note: Self-enumeration is optional, and traditional surveys will still be available.
Privacy and Data Security
The government assures encrypted data storage under the Census Act, 1948, which prohibits unauthorized disclosure. Digital rights groups, however, call for stronger cybersecurity measures to prevent breaches.
Bridging the Digital Divide
To ensure inclusivity:
– Training programs for enumerators are underway.
– Common Service Centres (CSCs) will assist rural users with the portal.
What’s Next?
The test phase will refine the system before a full rollout. While the census date remains unannounced, these tools signal advanced preparations.
Key Takeaways:
– Digitization aims to reduce errors and speed up the census.
– Self-enumeration is voluntary but could revolutionize participation.
– Data security remains a priority amid privacy concerns.
India’s census, covering 1.4 billion people, could set a global benchmark for efficiency with these innovations.
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