 is the first of two phases in the Census 2027 cycle. This stage marks a historic shift){kind=link}
The House-Listing and Housing Census (HLO) is the first of two phases in the Census 2027 cycle. This stage marks a historic shift in India’s demographic tracking, moving away from paper forms to a fully mobile-based enumeration system.
Current Status in Delhi (NDMC & Cantonment)
Following the conclusion of the self-enumeration period on April 15, field operations have moved into high gear:
Digital Mapping (April 16–18): Over 700 officials, including 569 enumerators and 98 supervisors, are currently on the ground. Their immediate task is to verify 560 house-listing blocks (HLBs) and match physical locations with digital maps to ensure no household is missed.
Door-to-Door Visits (Starting April 19): After the initial three-day mapping period, enumerators will begin physical household visits to collect data using a dedicated mobile application.
Questionnaire: Households will be asked a set of 33 notified questions covering housing conditions, amenities (like drinking water and electricity), and household assets.
Nationwide Rollout Schedule (April 2026)
The census is being conducted in 30-day windows across various states/UTs.
Key Innovations in Census 2027
First Fully Digital Census: Enumerators are using the “HLO App” on smartphones. The days of carrying heavy paper registers are over, allowing for faster processing and higher accuracy.
Self-Enumeration: For the first time, citizens could submit their details online. In the NDMC/Cantonment areas, approximately 5,000 residents used this option.
Action Item: If you self-enumerated, please have your 16-digit Self-Enumeration ID (SE ID) ready for the enumerator to scan.
Inclusive Data: Phase 2 (Population Enumeration in February 2027) will include a caste census for the first time since 1931.
Safety and Accuracy
Officials have warned residents not to confuse census enumerators with teams conducting the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Census enumerators will carry official identity cards, appointment letters, and distinct kits containing notepads and ORS packets (to manage the summer heat).