Press Release

Press Release from DAC Gangtok

Information & Public Relations Department

Date: 16-Feb-2026
District Level Conference/training on Census 2027 – First Phase preparation.
Gangtok, February 16: The District Level Conference for the First Phase of Census 2027 was successfully held today at the DAC Conference Hall, Gangtok. The meeting was chaired by Shri Karma Bonpo, IAS, Director of Census Operations, Sikkim, along with Principal Census Officer Shri Tushar G. Nikhare, IAS and District Census Officer Shri Sisum Wangchuk Bhutia.
The conference was attended by Charge Officers (SDMs) and Additional Charge Officers (BDOs) representing both urban and rural areas of Gangtok district. The training session primarily focused on preparations for the House Listing Operations, which will be conducted from April 1st 2026, to 30th September 2026
Census 2027 marks a historic milestone as it will be entirely digital. For the first time, the public will have the option of self-enumeration, available from April 1 to April 15, 2026, enabling households to participate directly through digital platforms. This innovation is expected to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and inclusivity in data collection.
Speaking at the event, Shri Karma Bonpo emphasised the importance of meticulous preparation and coordination among census officials to ensure smooth execution of the operations. He highlighted that the digital approach reflects the Government of India’s commitment to modernisation and citizen-centric governance.
The training mostly focused on the following points:
Operational Guidelines: Detailed instructions on digital data collection, verification protocols, and public outreach strategies.
Roles and Responsibilities: Charge Officers were briefed about the roles of  Enumerators and Supervisors on conducting household visits, ensuring accurate digital entry, and assisting citizens with self-enumeration. Supervisors were tasked with monitoring enumerators, validating entries, and resolving field-level challenges.
Digital Transition: Emphasis was placed on the unique nature of Census 2027, which will be entirely digital. For the first time, citizens can opt for self-enumeration between April 1 and April 15, 2026, using secure online platforms.
Shri Tushar Nikhare highlighted the critical role of census data in shaping plans and policies of the Government. He highlighted the fact that Census figures form the backbone of State Planning for infrastructure development, healthcare, education, and housing policies. He also mentioned that Census data helps in  Policy Formulation Providing evidence-based insights for governance and welfare programs. He emphasised that accurate enumeration is not just a statistical exercise but a cornerstone for inclusive growth and effective governance.
The conference concluded with a call for collective responsibility, urging all officers to ensure transparency, efficiency, and public participation in the upcoming census operation.