Q. Why does India still conduct a decennial Census when large-scale surveys like PLFS and NFHS already exist?

Why does India still conduct a decennial Census when large-scale surveys like PLFS and NFHS already exist?

✅ Answer

The Population Census is a process of complete enumeration, where information about every person and household in the country is collected. In India, it is conducted once every ten years under the Census Act, 1948. On the other hand, surveys such as the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) or the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) are sample surveys—they cover only a scientifically selected subset of the population and provide estimates with known levels of sampling error.

At first glance, it may seem that large-scale sample surveys could make the Census redundant, since surveys are cheaper, quicker, and more frequent. However, there are very strong reasons why India continues to conduct the Census regularly.

1. Benchmarking and Frame for Surveys

• All surveys (PLFS, NFHS, NSSO consumption surveys) use Census data as the population frame.

• For example, when PLFS gives labour force participation rates, it must be weighted against Census population totals to derive national estimates.

• Without Census, survey results lose their reference point.

  
  

2. Small-Area Statistics

• Surveys cannot provide reliable estimates for villages, towns, or wards because sample sizes are limited.

• Census covers the entire population and can therefore provide granular statistics that are essential for local planning (schools, hospitals, sanitation facilities).

  
  

3. Policy and Governance Uses

• Census data underlies delimitation of constituencies, electoral rolls, reservation policies, and fund allocation to states and districts.

• Example: Finance Commission allocations are often based on Census population figures.

  
  

4. International Obligation

• As per UN recommendations, countries should conduct a Census at least once in every 10 years.

• This ensures comparability of global demographic data (fertility, mortality, literacy, etc.).

  
  

5. Long-Term Planning and Projections

• Census provides the base year denominator for population projections and fertility/mortality estimates.

• This becomes critical in planning long-term infrastructure, employment generation, and social welfare schemes.

  
  

Hence, Census and surveys are complementary tools, not substitutes. Surveys provide timely, cost-effective estimates at the national/state level, while Census provides the benchmark and micro-level detail essential for governance and planning.

🔄 Cross Questions

CQ1. How do planners adjust population estimates between two Census years?

• They use population projections, particularly the cohort-component method, which updates age-sex cohorts using fertility, mortality, and migration rates.

• These inputs come from SRS (Sample Registration System), Civil Registration System (CRS), and surveys like NFHS.

• Administrative records such as school enrolments, voter lists, Aadhaar updates also supplement projections.

  
  

CQ2. Practical Question: If the 2021 Census was delayed, what alternative data sources could be used for planning?

• Policymakers can rely on:

1. NFHS (National Family Health Survey) for health and nutrition indicators.

2. PLFS (Periodic Labour Force Survey) for employment and labour force data.

3. Aadhaar and voter databases for updated population counts.

4. Civil Registration System (birth and death registration) for fertility/mortality data.

5. Electoral rolls for adult population estimates.

• However, each of these is only a proxy—none can fully replace the comprehensiveness of the Census.

  
  

🧩 Key Takeaway

• Census = full count, benchmark, small-area planning, governance backbone.

• Surveys = quicker, cheaper, good for trends, but dependent on Census for validation.

• India continues the decennial Census because no survey can provide the same level of granularity, reliability, and legal authority.

  
  

The Importance of the Census in India

The decennial Census is not just a bureaucratic exercise; it is a vital tool for understanding the demographic landscape of India. It helps in identifying trends and making informed decisions. The Census is essential for various sectors, including education, health, and infrastructure.

The Role of Data in Planning

Data collected through the Census informs government policies and programs. It helps in resource allocation and ensures that development reaches the most underserved areas. The Census data is crucial for local governments to plan effectively.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while surveys like PLFS and NFHS provide valuable insights, they cannot replace the comprehensive data that the Census offers. The decennial Census remains a cornerstone of India's demographic strategy, ensuring that every citizen is counted and represented.

The Census is not just about numbers; it is about the people behind those numbers. It reflects the diversity and complexity of Indian society, making it an indispensable tool for governance and planning.