SMC Commissioner Inaugurates Training for Census 2027, Stresses Accurate Population Enumeration
Srinagar, October 29: Principal Census Officer (Urban) and Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) Commissioner Dr. Basharat Qayoom, IAS, on Thursday inaugurated a two-day training programme for Phase II of Census 2027 at the SMC Central Office in Karan Nagar, Srinagar, emphasising the need for accurate, systematic and comprehensive population enumeration across the city’s urban jurisdiction.
Addressing the inaugural session, Dr. Basharat stressed that all census functionaries must discharge their assigned responsibilities with diligence, precision and accountability to ensure the collection of reliable and error-free population data. He underlined the importance of complete coverage of assigned enumeration areas, accurate recording of individual particulars and strict adherence to prescribed census methodology and guidelines.
He also emphasised effective coordination among Charge Officers, Census Resource Personnel, Census Clerks, Technical Assistants and other officials to ensure uniform implementation of census procedures. Systematic supervision, regular monitoring, timely reporting and prompt resolution of operational challenges, he said, would be crucial to the smooth conduct of the enumeration exercise.
The Principal Census Officer called for particular attention to preventing omissions, duplication and discrepancies during data collection. He also highlighted the importance of maintaining data quality, following prescribed technical procedures and ensuring the confidentiality and secure handling of census information.
The training programme was attended by the City Census Officer (Urban), Charge Officers, Nodal Officers of SMC, Census Resource Personnel, Census Clerks and Technical Assistants. Experts from the Census Department, including the Deputy Director, Assistant Director and District Coordinator, provided detailed guidance on census methodology, operational procedures, technical requirements and the responsibilities of different functionaries.
The two-day programme covers key aspects of population enumeration, including the collection, recording and verification of individual-level information, adherence to prescribed questionnaires, comprehensive coverage of assigned areas and measures to ensure consistency and accuracy in the data. Participants are also being familiarised with field-level procedures, supervisory mechanisms, digital tools and established reporting protocols.
Phase II of Census 2027, which involves population enumeration, is a critical component of the nationwide exercise. It entails collecting individual-level demographic, socio-economic, educational and other prescribed information to develop a comprehensive and reliable population database.
Census data serve as an important foundation for evidence-based policymaking, public administration and development planning. For urban local bodies, accurate population statistics are essential for assessing demographic trends, identifying emerging civic needs and planning infrastructure and essential public services in line with the requirements of the population.
The training programme is aimed at strengthening institutional preparedness and enhancing the capacity of census personnel to ensure the accurate, coordinated and effective implementation of Phase II of Census 2027 across Srinagar’s urban jurisdiction. ANB
