India has begun the world's largest national census, which could reshape social programs and political representation across the country. The previous census in 2011 recorded a population of 1.21 billion, and estimates now put the population at over 1.4 billion, making India the world's most populous nation. The census scheduled for 2021 was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and logistical challenges. The first phase of the census began yesterday and will continue throughout the country. Government employees will spend about a month in each area, collecting information on homes and buildings and documenting the housing stock and living conditions. The second phase will record more detailed information, such as the social and economic characteristics of individuals, including religion and caste. The current census is expected to deploy three million government employees.
