LG Saxena launches ‘Census 2027 Self-Enumeration’ in Ladakh UT

LEH: Ladakh has formally launched the Population Self-Enumeration (Phase-II) of Census 2027, with Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena completing his own self-enumeration in Leh today, marking the beginning of a significant citizen-driven exercise in the Union Territory.

On the occasion, Amit Sharma, Chief Principal Census Officer (CPCO) and Director Census Operations (DCO), Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, was also present.

Ladakh is set to achieve a unique distinction by becoming the first Union Territory in the country to complete Phase-II of Census 2027, necessitated by the region’s prolonged and severe winter conditions, during which large parts of the UT remain snow-bound. The reference date for population enumeration is October 1, 2026.

The Self-Enumeration window will remain open from August 17 to 31, 2026, enabling residents to record their household and individual details through the digital platform. The initiative is aimed at making the census process more participatory while ensuring greater convenience and accuracy in the collection of population data.

Speaking on the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor emphasised that the census exercise goes beyond the compilation of statistics, describing it as a national endeavour that will lay the foundation for informed governance, equitable resource distribution and inclusive development.

He appealed to all residents of Ladakh to actively participate in the Self-Enumeration process, stressing that their participation would help ensure that the Union Territory’s unique identity, aspirations and developmental needs are appropriately reflected in the national database.

The exercise assumes particular importance for Ladakh given its challenging terrain, dispersed settlements and extreme climatic conditions. Completing the process before the onset of the harsh winter season will help ensure effective and comprehensive population enumeration across the Union Territory.

Accurate census data will also serve as a critical foundation for future planning, policy formulation, delivery of public services and targeted development interventions. The initiative thus carries significance not only for Ladakh’s administrative planning but also for the broader national vision of Viksit Bharat@2047.

The UT Administration has urged residents to make full use of the Self-Enumeration facility within the stipulated period and contribute to making Census 2027 a comprehensive, accurate and people-centric national exercise.