Mock Census to Begin in Odisha from November 15: 170 Enumerators Deployed Across Four Locations
Bhubaneswar, Nov 4: In preparation for the upcoming national census, the Directorate of Census Operations will conduct a mock census across four selected locations in Odisha from November 15 to 30, 2025. This dry run aims to streamline processes and test digital data collection methods ahead of the full-scale enumeration scheduled for 2026–27.
The mock exercise will be carried out in:
- Ward No. 22, Bhubaneswar
- Ward No. 17, Cuttack
- Thakurmunda, Mayurbhanj
- Tentulikhunti, Nabarangpur
A total of 170 enumerators will be deployed for the exercise. These personnel are currently undergoing training and will use smartphones and a dedicated mobile app to collect and upload data in real time.
According to Census Director Nikhil Pavan Kalyan, the mock census is a sample survey and will help identify operational challenges before the actual enumeration. Citizens are encouraged to cooperate and provide accurate information. Those interested can also submit their details via the official Census website.
The first phase of the national census—focused on house listing—will be conducted from April to September 2026, followed by the population enumeration phase from February 1 to 28, 2027. Approximately 1 lakh enumerators, primarily primary school teachers, will be engaged, with high school teachers supervising the process.
Enumerators participating in the census will receive additional remuneration, and all data will be collected digitally to ensure efficiency and accuracy.
