Census 2027: Self-Enumeration Process Begins; Door-to-Door Enumeration from May 16 to June 14

A major digital transformation has been introduced in India’s Census process, with Census 2027 set to be conducted using advanced digital systems. For the first time, a Self-Enumeration (SE) facility has been enabled, allowing individuals to submit their household details online, aligning with the Government’s Digital India initiative.

In Maharashtra, a dedicated 15-day window has been scheduled for this online process, which will run from May 1 to May 15, 2026. The facility has been made available through a secure government portal developed by the Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India. The platform has been designed to offer flexibility, enabling households to complete the process at their convenience.

Addressing a press conference in Mumbai, Dr. Nirupama J. Dange stated that the initiative has been introduced to improve the efficiency, accuracy, and timeliness of data collection. It was highlighted that the process has been kept simple and user-friendly, ensuring wider participation. Senior officials from the Directorate of Census Operations, Maharashtra, informed that any one member of a household can complete the Self-Enumeration process on behalf of the family. The process is expected to take approximately 15–20 minutes, and importantly, no documents are required to be uploaded. Upon submission, a Self-Enumeration ID (SE ID) will be generated and shared via the registered mobile number or email.

To ensure clarity for citizens, the process has been outlined as follows:

Self-Enumeration Process (May 1–15, 2026)

• Visit the official portal: https://se.census.gov.in
• One member of the household fills in details for all members
• Complete the online form (approx. 15–20 minutes)
• No document uploads required
• Submit the form online
• Receive a Self-Enumeration ID (SE ID) via mobile/email

It has been clearly communicated that self-enumeration is optional and not mandatory. Citizens who do not participate in the online process will still be covered under the Census exercise. From May 16 to June 14, 2026, enumerators will conduct door-to-door visits across households as part of the ‘Houselisting and Housing Census’ phase. During this stage, data collected online will be verified and validated.

Post Self-Enumeration (May 16–June 14, 2026)

• Enumerator visits the household
• SE ID is shared with the enumerator
• Submitted data is verified and validated
• Census process is completed after confirmation

If You Do Not Self-Enumerate

• No action required during May 1–15
• Enumerator will visit between May 16–June 14
• Household details can be provided directly during the visit

Officials have also emphasised the importance of cybersecurity and public awareness. All data submitted through the portal is encrypted and stored on secure Government servers with strict privacy safeguards.

Safety & Verification Guidelines

• Use only the official portal: https://se.census.gov.in
• Avoid responding to suspicious or unknown messages
• Official SMS/OTP communications will include “RGICEN” in the sender name

The initiative marks a significant step towards modernising India’s Census operations, combining digital convenience with traditional verification methods to ensure comprehensive and reliable data collection across the country.