Odisha to Begin First Phase of Census from April

Odisha is set to commence the first phase of the state census in April 2026, followed by the second phase in February 2027. The first phase will focus on household and asset enumeration, while the second phase will carry out population counting from home to home.

Preparations Underway for Six Months

Preparations for the census have been ongoing for the past six months. Pre-tests have been completed in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, and boundaries for National Administrative Census (NAC) and municipal wards have been finalized. The Development Commissioner, in coordination with all District Collectors, has overseen these preparations.

Census Officers to Be Appointed and Trained

Approximately one lakh census officers will be appointed across the state. Each officer will be assigned 200 households, and a supervisor will be appointed for every six officers. Officers will receive training over the next three months. Each officer will also receive an economic incentive of ₹25,000 for their work.

Phase 1: House Marking from April to May

During Phase 1 (April–May 2026), officers will mark households, while the second phase in February 2027 will involve detailed population enumeration. This two-phase approach ensures accurate and comprehensive data collection across Odisha.

Digital and Self-Reporting Options Available

Residents will have the option to self-report their information online, using a website portal with OTP verification via mobile numbers. Each mobile number can be used only once, and screenshots or other multiple submissions will not be accepted to ensure accuracy.

State Coordination and Oversight

The census will be conducted under the supervision of the State Census Coordination Committee, chaired by the Development Commissioner, with senior officials and census directors present. State and district-level authorities will manage registration, trials, training, and field operations to ensure a smooth and organized census.