Ladakh Set to Become First in India to Complete Census Operations by September 2026
The meeting focused on assessing the progress of the ongoing House Listing Operations (HLO) under Census 2027 and was attended by key officials, including Assistant Director and District Census Prabhari Sadique Hussain, Additional District Development Commissioner Ghulam Mohammad, Chief Planning Officer K. Mohammad Hussain, and other charge officers, supervisors, and technical staff
SRINAGAR: The Union Territory of Ladakh is poised to become the first in the country to complete all Census-related activities by September, with October 1, 2026 designated as the reference date for final figures. This was stated by Chief Principal Census Officer (CPCO) and Director of Census Operations for Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, Amit Sharma, during a high-level review meeting held in Baroo, Kargil.
The meeting focused on assessing the progress of the ongoing House Listing Operations (HLO) under Census 2027 and was attended by key officials, including Assistant Director and District Census Prabhari Sadique Hussain, Additional District Development Commissioner Ghulam Mohammad, Chief Planning Officer K. Mohammad Hussain, and other charge officers, supervisors, and technical staff.
A detailed review of Census activities across Kargil district was conducted, covering municipal areas and tehsils such as Drass, Sankoo, Shakar Chiktan, Shargole, Taisuru, and Zanskar.
Addressing the gathering, Sharma underlined the significance of the Census as one of the nation’s most critical exercises, noting that accurate population data forms the foundation of evidence-based governance, developmental planning, and equitable resource allocation. He reiterated that all information collected during the Census process remains strictly confidential and is protected under Section 15 of the Census Act, 1948, making it inaccessible to any department, agency, or court of law.
Sharma commended the Kargil district administration for its preparedness and effective planning despite the challenges posed by Ladakh’s rugged terrain, dispersed settlements, and remote high-altitude and border areas. He emphasised the importance of precision in data collection, directing field staff to ensure complete household coverage and meticulous verification, as even minor inaccuracies could impact future policy decisions.
Later, while briefing the media, Amit Sharma highlighted the extensive preparations underway and urged residents, particularly in Kargil, to cooperate fully by providing accurate information to enumerators. He expressed confidence that Ladakh would set a national benchmark by completing the Census exercise ahead of the rest of the country, reinforcing its commitment to inclusive development and effective governance.
