When was the First Population Census Taken in India?
VerifiedAnswer: In The Year 1872
Explanation:
The first population census in India was conducted in 1872 under British colonial rule. This historic census was initiated by Lord Mayo, who was the Viceroy of India at that time, and it marked the beginning of systematic population counting in the Indian subcontinent.
However, it's important to understand that this 1872 census was quite different from the comprehensive censuses we know today. It was a non-synchronous census, meaning it wasn't conducted simultaneously across all regions of India. Different areas were surveyed at different times, and the data collection methods were relatively basic compared to modern standards.
The 1872 census covered most parts of British India, but it had several limitations. The enumeration was not done on a single day, and the methods used were not uniform across all regions. Despite these challenges, it provided valuable demographic information and laid the groundwork for future census operations in India.
Following the 1872 census, India conducted its first systematic and synchronous census in 1881. This 1881 census is often considered more reliable and comprehensive as it was conducted simultaneously across the country on a single day - February 17, 1881. Since then, India has been conducting decennial censuses every ten years, making it one of the largest demographic exercises in the world.
The census data has always been crucial for various purposes including administrative planning, resource allocation, and understanding demographic trends. Even today, the Census of India continues this tradition established in 1872, providing essential data for the country's development and governance.
