JNM Correspondent Hardeep Jamwal, Jammu
The self-enumeration process, initiated under Census-2026 in Jammu & Kashmir, has received encouraging cooperation from the public. By participating in the campaign to digitally register their personal details, over 667,000 households in the region have secured the eighth rank for Jammu & Kashmir at the national level. Furthermore, within the category of Union Territories, Jammu & Kashmir has secured the first position.
During the first phase of the census drive—conducted by the Census Department from May 17 to May 31—residents across all 22 districts of the region participated enthusiastically. According to officials, 667,517 households registered their census-related information online during this period. This figure comprises approximately 60 percent of households from the Jammu division and about 40 percent from the Kashmir division.
In terms of district-wise performance, Pulwama secured the top spot by recording the highest level of participation. It was followed by Jammu district in second place and Kulgam in third. Officials state that this active public participation serves as proof that the region is rapidly embracing digital services.
According to the Census Department, data for approximately 3.5 million people has been collected so far through self-enumeration, which is estimated to represent about 30 to 40 percent of the region’s total population. With this achievement, Jammu & Kashmir has surpassed several larger states and Union Territories.
Following the success of the first phase, the second phase of the census has now commenced. This phase will run from June 1 to July 30, during which census officials will conduct door-to-door visits to verify the information submitted by residents and finalize the data. Special teams have been deployed across the region for this purpose.
Officials have assured citizens that all information provided during the census will be kept strictly confidential. Additionally, the public has been urged not to share sensitive details—such as bank account numbers, passbook details, ATM card information, PAN numbers, or other financial particulars—with any individual. Citizens may contact the helpline number 1855 for any assistance related to the census.
Describing the success of the first phase of the digital census in the state as a significant achievement, the administration has expressed hope that it will continue to receive similar cooperation from the public during the second phase as well.
