JNM journalist Hardeep Jamwal, Jammu
The administration has completed preparations for the census, which is going to be conducted after many years in Jammu and Kashmir. House Listing Operations (HLO) will begin on May 17th, 2026, under which vital information related to people’s lives will be collected by reaching every household. This census will be more modern and digital than before, with direct participation of the general public.
A 33-question questionnaire prepared by the administration will collect complete details of the house’s structure, amenities, and the socio-economic status of the family. This will include information on everything from the construction of floors, walls, and roofs to basic amenities like electricity, water, toilets, kitchens, and drainage. Questions will also be asked about digital services like internet, smartphones, laptops, and computers.
A major change in this census is that people will be able to enter their information themselves on the online portal. After submitting information under “self-enumeration,” a unique number will be issued, which will be mandatory to show to officials during the survey. This process will begin approximately 15 days before the start of the HLO.
Demographic information will include the name of the head of the household, gender, caste (SC/ST/Other), and the number of married couples. A record of family assets—such as televisions, bicycles, motorcycles, cars, or other vehicles—will also be compiled. Importantly, this time, information about the family’s staple food will also be collected.
The administration claims that this census process has been made transparent and technically robust. Technical assistants and officials will assist people in using the online portal so that maximum people can benefit from this facility.
The administration appears to be fully active regarding Census 2026. Now, it remains to be seen how much people participate in this digital initiative and how smoothly the process is completed.
