Father of Indian Census

Who is the Father of Indian Census? 

Census, a systematic collection and recording of demographic, social, and economic data of a country’s population, stands as one of the most crucial tools for understanding the dynamics of a society. In the context of India, the census has played an indispensable role in shaping policies, identifying challenges, and facilitating development. The first Census of India was started by Henry Walter in the year 1830. Therefore, Henry Walter is known as the Father of Indian Census.

What is Census?

A census is a comprehensive and periodic survey that captures a wide array of information about a country’s population. This information includes demographic data such as age, sex, marital status, education, occupation, and economic indicators. The primary objective of a census is to provide a detailed snapshot of the population, which in turn guides the government in making decisions, policy formulations, resource allocation, and planning for various sectors. Census is not merely about counting heads; it’s about telling the story of a nation. It’s about understanding the dynamics that shape society, be it age distribution, educational attainment, economic activities, or migration patterns. This wealth of information empowers governments and organisations to tailor policies, allocate resources efficiently, and address emerging challenges effectively.

Key Takeaways from Census:

• The office of the Regional General and Census Commissioner, Ministry of Home Affairs conducts the census.
• Census Act, 1948 sets the guidelines for the conduction of the census.
• The information collected by the census is confidential as stated by the law, it is not even accessible to the courts of law.

Examples illustrating the Census:

1. Age Distribution: A census provides a breakdown of a population’s age distribution. For instance, a country with a high proportion of young people might need to focus on expanding educational opportunities and creating job prospects. On the other hand, a nation with a significant elderly population might require healthcare and pension-related policies.

2. Gender Disparities: Census data often highlights gender disparities. By comparing the male-to-female ratio, governments can identify regions where gender imbalances are prevalent, leading to targeted interventions for women’s empowerment and social equality.

3. Urbanisation Trends: Census data tracks urban and rural populations, aiding in understanding the pace of Urbanisation. This information is essential for urban planning, infrastructure development, and managing the challenges of rapid urban growth.

4. Educational Attainment: The educational level of a population provides insights into a nation’s human capital. A high literacy rate might indicate a well-educated workforce, while low literacy rates might prompt initiatives to improve access to education.

5. Occupation and Employment: Census data on occupation and employment sheds light on the types of jobs people are engaged in. This data helps in assessing the skill sets of the workforce and designing policies to boost employment and economic growth.

Phases of Census: Pre-independence and Post-independence

Pre-Independence Era

The first Census was done for Indian citizens by Henry Walter in 1830 in Dhaka (Dacca). The second census was conducted by Fort St. George in 1836-37. After that the first continuous census started in 1881 (by W.C. Plowden, the Census Commissioner of India), and then the country followed a 10-year cycle. It means that, after the 1881 census, India conducted a census after every 10 years. 

Post-Independence Era

After achieving independence, the first Census was conducted in the year 1951. The latest census conducted in India was in 2011. The next census after the 2011 census was supposed to be held in the year 2021, but it was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Major Findings in India’s Census

First Census (1881): The very first census focused on various classifications like demographics, social, and economic characteristics of the entire India which was coming under British rule, except Kashmir, Portuguese, and French Colonies.

Second Census (1891): This census was conducted in the same manner as the first one, but this once included the upper parts of Kashmir, Burma, and Sikkim.

Third Census (1901): In this census, remote areas of Kashmir, Punjab, and Burma were included.

Fifth Census (1921): The fifth census, recorded a 0.31% decline in population due to the flu pandemic. The flu pandemic costed around 12 million lives.

Eleventh Census (1971): This census was the second census after independence and recorded data on fertility in married women.

Thirteenth Census (1991): This was the fifth census after independence, and the concept of literacy was changed in this census, i.e., children of the 7+ age group were considered literate.

Fourteenth Census (2001): This census focused on the technology. Many handwritten data were converted into digital form with the help of Intelligent Character Reading (ICR).

Fifteenth Census (2011): In this census, fall in empowered action groups like UP, Bihar, UTT, MP, Jharkhand; etc., were given importance.

Sixteenth Census (2021): The sixteenth census was postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak, but it will be the very first digital census. Also, in this census, the information of family members headed by any transgender member will be collected.