The 16th National Census is set to officially kick off in Nagpur on May 1, 2026. Overseen by the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC), this digital-first exercise will be conducted in two distinct phases to update the city’s demographic data for the first time since 2011.
Civic officials have emphasized that this census is a vital foundation for the city’s future socio-economic planning and have urged all residents to cooperate with the deployed teams.
Phase 1: Self-Enumeration (May 1 – May 16)
In a major shift toward a “Digital India,” the first 15 days of the census will focus on self-enumeration.
- Online Submission: Residents are encouraged to log into the official portal to submit their household details independently.
- Process: After completing the online form, citizens will receive a Digital Reference Number (CRN). This number should be saved and presented to the surveyor during the second phase for quick verification, saving time and reducing errors.
Phase 2: Door-to-Door Survey (May 16 – June 24)
Following the self-enumeration window, the NMC will launch a massive field operation across all city limits.
- Manpower: The NMC has deployed 45,000 surveyors and 700 supervisors. Each surveyor is responsible for roughly 800 residents.
- The HLO App: Moving away from paper forms, surveyors will use the House Listing Operation (HLO) App on their smartphones to record data in real-time.
- The Questionnaire: Citizens will be asked 33 questions covering housing conditions, household assets, and family demographics.
Nagpur’s Changing Landscape
This census arrives at a critical time as Nagpur’s population has grown significantly over the last 15 years.
- 2011 Data: The last official census recorded Nagpur’s population at 24,05,665 (12.25 lakh men and 11.80 lakh women).
- Current Estimates: Recent projections suggest the city’s population may have surged toward 36 lakh, highlighting the need for updated data to manage public utilities, traffic, and infrastructure.
All personal information collected during the process is strictly confidential under the Census Act of 1948 and cannot be used for any legal or judicial evidence. The NMC has set up help desks at zonal offices to assist those who may face difficulties with the digital self-enumeration process.
