New Delhi, September 27: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday described the Census as a national responsibility and urged citizens to complete the online self-enumeration process to help create accurate data for the country’s future planning.
Speaking during his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, Modi said more than 2.6 crore people had already entered their details through the Census self-enumeration portal using mobile phones.
PM Modi Highlights Importance of Census Data
Modi said accurate information about individuals and families is essential for understanding the country’s demographic situation and planning future development.
He said the first phase of the Census exercise is nearly complete across all states and Union Territories. Data from more than 32 crore families has already been recorded, while enumeration work is also continuing in remote areas of Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir and Uttarakhand.
The online self-enumeration facility is available in Hindi and 16 regional languages, making it easier for citizens to provide their family details.
How to Complete Census Self-Enumeration Online
Citizens can visit the Census online portal and complete the process using their mobile phones.
The process involves:
- Visiting the Census online portal
- Logging in with a mobile number
- Entering location details
- Providing information about family members
- Submitting the information
According to Modi, the process takes around 15 to 20 minutes and does not require citizens to upload documents.
After submission, citizens receive a special ID, which can be shared with the Census enumerator during the household visit. The information will become part of the Census record after verification.
PM Modi Talks About Environment Conservation
During Mann Ki Baat, Modi also highlighted several initiatives aimed at protecting wildlife and the environment.
He referred to the Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam, where elephants have reportedly returned after encroachments on forest land were cleared.
He also highlighted conservation efforts for the Pygmy Hog, a small and endangered animal found in Assam. Modi said a conservation programme that began with six Pygmy Hogs has helped increase their population to more than 190 through reintroduction and grassland conservation.
Women Lead Mangrove Conservation in Sundarbans
Modi also spoke about women in Jharkhali in West Bengal’s Sundarbans who are involved in creating mangrove forests.
Many of these women lost their husbands in tiger attacks and subsequently found livelihoods within the Sundarbans. The mangroves they are planting are helping protect villages while also providing income opportunities.
Modi urged citizens to protect the environment, maintain the balance of nature and preserve biodiversity for future generations.
Rajinder Singh Promotes Hockey in Punjab Villages
The Prime Minister also highlighted the work of former hockey player Rajinder Singh, a member of India’s gold-medal-winning hockey team at the 1980 Olympics.
Through the Round Glass Hockey Academy, Singh is promoting hockey in villages by helping establish astro-turf facilities and identifying young players who do not have access to quality coaching.
Modi said such initiatives are helping talented players reach India’s junior and senior-level teams.
Focus on Malnutrition and Poshan Tracker
Modi also discussed India’s efforts to tackle malnutrition during September, which is dedicated to the fight against malnutrition.
He highlighted initiatives in Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Mizoram and praised Anganwadi workers and organisations involved in nutrition programmes.
He said around nine crore beneficiaries are registered on the Poshan Tracker, which digitally connects Anganwadi centres and supports better monitoring and care for children, pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers.
Modi called for continued efforts to make India free from malnutrition.
