Baramulla, Jun 06 (KNO): Director Census Operations and Chief Principal Census Officer for Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, Amit Sharma on Saturday said that Census 2027 will play a crucial role in shaping future development policies and welfare schemes across the country, urging people to actively participate in the ongoing enumeration process and provide accurate information.
Addressing media here, Sharma, as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) said the house listing phase of the census is currently underway and will continue till June 30. He said the exercise is being conducted through a fully digital and paperless system, reflecting the country's growing digital governance framework.
The director said Baramulla district has 25 census charges, including 18 rural and seven urban charges, where enumerators and supervisors are visiting households to collect information through mobile-based applications.
"The last census was conducted in 2011. Updated population figures are essential for planning developmental projects, welfare initiatives and resource allocation. Accurate data helps people get their rightful share in government schemes," he said.
Appealing for public cooperation, Sharma said the survey consists of 33 basic questions and urged residents to respond truthfully and accurately.
He also cautioned citizens against fraudsters attempting to misuse the census exercise for extracting personal information.
"The Census does not seek bank account details, credit card numbers, PAN information or any financial credentials. People should verify the identity cards of enumerators before sharing information and remain vigilant against fraud attempts," he said.
Sharma advised people to immediately report any suspicious activity to the police or the census helpline 1855 for legal action against those trying to deceive citizens in the name of the census.
Reassuring the public on data privacy, he said all information collected during the census is completely safe, secure and protected under the provisions of the Census Act, 1948.
"The data collected is 100 per cent secure, non-shareable and protected by law. Under Section 15 of the Census Act, the information cannot be disclosed or used as evidence by courts, enforcement agencies or any other authority. There is no need for people to worry about the confidentiality of their data," Sharma said—(KNO)