India to Finally Conduct Delayed National Census

India is set to conduct its long-awaited national census, which was delayed for three years due to the pandemic and logistical challenges. Interior Minister Amit Shah confirmed the plan, and the census is expected to begin in September and take 18 months to complete.

India will finally conduct its long-awaited national census, Interior Minister Amit Shah announced on Tuesday. The census has been delayed for about three years due to the COVID-19 pandemic and various logistical challenges.

Last month, Reuters reported that the census would likely begin in September. This will help Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government address critical data gaps, a task deemed essential in his third term amid ongoing criticism.

The comprehensive survey, last conducted in 2011, will take about 18 months to complete once initiated, offering crucial insights into the nation's demographic and socio-economic landscape.

(With inputs from agencies.)