Indian Polity

Choose the Correct Answer

Correct Answer : Option c

Explanation
Statement 1 is correct: The first census of India was conducted in 1871, but it was incomplete and didn't cover the entire country. The first complete census was conducted in 1881, which became the foundation for the regular census exercises. Since then, India has conducted a decennial (every 10 years) census, with the most recent one planned for 2021, though it has been postponed due to the pandemic.

Statement 2 is not correct: The Census of India is not conducted under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation. The Registrar General of India, who works under the Ministry of Home Affairs, is responsible for conducting the census. The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation is responsible for various statistical activities and surveys in India, but not the census.

● The census is organized and managed by the Registrar General of India, a division under the Ministry of Home Affairs, which ensures the execution of the census through a detailed and structured process.

Statement 3 is correct: The Census of India is one of the largest administrative exercises in the world, and it collects a wide range of data:
● Demographic data: Information like age, sex, literacy, and marital status.
● Social data: Data related to religion, language, and scheduled castes or tribes.
● Cultural data: Information on cultural practices, like language spoken and religious practices.
● Economic data: Details about occupations, industry sectors, and economic conditions of households.
This information is essential for formulating policies and making decisions related to governance, development programs, and resource allocation. The data from the census is crucial for planning purposes, including economic planning, social welfare programs, and even electoral representation (since seats in the Parliament are apportioned based on population data).