Maharashtra adopts hybrid model for Census 2026 data collection -Governance Now

Maharashtra adopts hybrid model for Census 2026 data collection

Online self-enumeration complemented by state-wide field visits from mid-May to mid-June

Geetanjali Minhas | May 2, 2026 | Mumbai

#Maharashtra #Census

The government has initiated preparations for Census 2026 in Maharashtra, introducing a hybrid approach that combines optional self-enumeration with comprehensive door-to-door data collection to ensure complete coverage across the state.

According to senior officials, the Self-Enumeration (SE) portal will remain operational from May 1 to May 15. During this period, households may voluntarily submit their details online, with the process designed to be completed in approximately 15–20 minutes. Any adult member of the household can undertake the exercise. Upon successful submission, a Self-Enumeration Identification Number (SE ID) will be generated and shared via the registered mobile number or email. Officials clarified that no documents are required to be uploaded during this process.

Irrespective of participation in self-enumeration, enumerators will conduct physical visits to every household in Maharashtra between May 16 and June 14, as part of the house-listing phase.

Large-Scale Workforce Mobilisation and Training

To support the exercise, approximately 2.64 lakh field functionaries, including enumerators and supervisors, are being deployed across the state, with an additional 10 percent kept in reserve. A structured five-tier training mechanism has been implemented in accordance with guidelines issued by the Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner of India.

The training cascade began with National Trainers imparting instruction to 141 Master Trainers at YASHADA, Pune, between March 9 and March 17, 2026. These Master Trainers subsequently trained 3,850 Field Trainers at district and statutory town headquarters from April 6 to April 17. In the final phase, Field Trainers are currently training approximately 2.64 lakh enumerators and supervisors from April 23 to May 8. These personnel will undertake field operations using the designated HLO mobile application.

Robust Data Security Measures in Place

Officials have underscored the implementation of a comprehensive three-layer security framework to safeguard census data. The system encompasses security at the device level, encrypted data transmission, and secure server storage supported by multi-factor authentication protocols.

Access to the data will be strictly limited to authorized personnel through password and OTP-based authentication systems. All collected information will be stored in encrypted format to ensure confidentiality and integrity.

Citizens opting for self-enumeration have been advised to use only the official portal (https://se.census.gov.in) and to verify the authenticity of any communications related to the census process.

The Census 2026 exercise is expected to leverage digital tools and trained manpower to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and data security, marking a significant advancement in the conduct of large-scale demographic operations in Maharashtra.

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