The curtain rose on the first Census of Independent India on February 9, 1951, and the enumeration process continued until February 28, 1951. The population of the nation was recorded as 36,10,88,090. Every decade witnesses the Census, and till 2011, it has been conducted 15 times. The Census of India Act of 1948 governs all these censuses.
This article will serve as a valuable resource for those preparing for the
IAS Exam
.
First Census of Independent India – A Look into the Past
The practice of census in India has a long-standing history. The Rig Veda literature suggests that population counts were conducted during those times. The strategic text of Chanakya, Arthashastra, also highlights the importance of census for tax purposes. During the middle ages, some form of population count was conducted during the reign of
Akbar
in the Mughal Empire.
The modern era saw the initiation of the census with the British authorities conducting the census for Allahabad town in 1824. Following this, Benares also conducted a census in 1827-28.
The first comprehensive census of an Indian city was conducted for Dacca (currently in Bangladesh) by Henry Walter in 1830.
Different regions conducted their census in various years. In 1865, the Indian government decided to conduct a general census of the country in 1871.
In 1866-67, actual headcounts were taken in most parts of the country, which was known as the Census of 1872. However, not all territories were covered. In this first nationwide census, 17 questions were asked related to name, age, religion, caste/class, nationality or race, reading/writing ability, and school or college attendance. Males were also asked a separate question about their occupation.
Since then, the government has conducted regular censuses every ten years.
The last pre-independence census was in 1941. After achieving independence, the Bhore Committee suggested the appointment of a Registrar General of Vital and Population Statistics at central and provincial levels.
Following the Committee’s recommendations, the Census Act came into force in 1948. The 1951 census was conducted in accordance with this act.
The enumeration period for the 1951 census was from February 9th to 28th. Questions were asked about an individual’s name, age, religion, sex, relationship status, economic status, primary and secondary means of livelihood, mother tongue, and literacy.
When was the first Census of Independent India conducted?
The first Census of Independent India was conducted from 9 February 1951 to 28 February 1951.
How many times has the Census been conducted in India?
As of 2011, the Census has been conducted 15 times in India.
What was the population of India according to the first Census?
According to the first Census of Independent India, the population was counted as 36,10,88,090.
What is the significance of the Census?
Census provides detailed and authentic information about population statistics including literacy rate, gender ratio, and economic status which is essential for planning and formulation of policies.