SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 29: Principal Census Officer (Urban), Commissioner SMC, Dr. Basharat Qayoom, IAS, today inaugurated a two-day training programme for Phase II of Census 2027 at the Central Office, Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), Karan Nagar, emphasising the need for accurate, systematic and comprehensive Population Enumeration across Srinagar’s urban jurisdiction.
During the inaugural session, Dr. Basharat stressed that all census functionaries must discharge their assigned responsibilities with utmost diligence, precision and accountability to ensure the collection of reliable and error-free population data. He underscored the importance of complete coverage of assigned enumeration areas, accurate recording of individual-level particulars and strict adherence to the prescribed census methodology and guidelines.
The Principal Census Officer emphasised the need for effective coordination among Charge Officers, Census Resource Personnel, Census Clerks, Technical Assistants and other functionaries to ensure uniform implementation of prescribed procedures. He highlighted the importance of systematic supervision, regular monitoring of progress, timely reporting and prompt resolution of operational challenges during the enumeration process.
Dr. Basharat further stressed that particular attention must be given to preventing omissions, duplication and discrepancies in data collection. He underscored the importance of maintaining data quality, following prescribed technical procedures and ensuring the confidentiality and secure handling of census information.
The training programme was attended by the City Census Officer (Urban), Charge Officers, Nodal Officers of SMC, Census Resource Personnel, Census Clerks and Technical Assistants. Experts from the Census Department, including the Deputy Director, Assistant Director and District Coordinator, imparted detailed training on census methodology, operational procedures, technical requirements and the responsibilities of various census functionaries.
The session will cover key aspects of Population Enumeration, including the collection, recording and verification of individual-level information, adherence to prescribed questionnaires, comprehensive coverage of assigned areas and measures to ensure accuracy and consistency in the data collected. Participants were also briefed on field-level procedures, supervisory mechanisms, digital tools and established reporting protocols.
Phase II of Census 2027, comprising Population Enumeration, is a crucial component of the nationwide census exercise, involving the collection of individual-level demographic, socio-economic, educational and other prescribed particulars. The accuracy and completeness of this information are essential for developing a reliable population database.
Census data provide a vital foundation for evidence-based policymaking, public administration and development planning. For urban local bodies, reliable population statistics are essential for assessing demographic trends, identifying emerging civic requirements and planning infrastructure and essential public services in accordance with the needs of the population.
The two-day training programme marks an important step towards strengthening institutional preparedness and building the capacity of census functionaries for the accurate, coordinated and effective implementation of Phase II of Census 2027 across Srinagar’s urban jurisdiction.
