Census is far more than a headcount. Reliable data helps identify gaps in healthcare, education, social welfare, road connectivity and digital infrastructure.
– Dr Shakil P Ahammed, Chief Secretary
Shillong, Oct 29: Officers engaged in Census operations in Meghalaya have been directed to ensure 100% coverage of the population, particularly in remote pockets of the state.
“We must ensure that every individual is counted. People living in remote areas including Baghmara, Dalu and Ranikor must be covered,” Chief Secretary Dr Shakil P Ahammed told Census officials on Thursday.
Comprehensive population data is vital for inclusive development and effective implementation of welfare schemes, the Chief Secretary said while addressing the State Level Training Conference on Phase-II (Population Enumeration) of Census 2027 at State Guest House, Taraghar.
“Census is far more than a headcount. Reliable data helps identify gaps in healthcare, education, social welfare, road connectivity and digital infrastructure. It will support Meghalaya’s Vision 2032 and progress towards SDGs,” he said.
Warning against undercounting, the Chief Secretary said incomplete data would deprive vulnerable communities of public services.
He also said Census data would boost the state’s economic roadmap.
“Such information would be crucial for long-term economic planning and attracting private investment as the state pursues building a $10-billion economy and subsequently $16-billion economy,” Ahammed said.
He lauded nearly 10,000 personnel, including enumerators, for completing House Listing phase.
State Nodal Officer Dr Pooja Pandey said technology would make compilation easier and data more accurate and secure.
Deputy Registrar General Vrushali Abhijit Warade, Office of RGI, MHA, said financial and technical assistance would be provided by the Centre and detailed the operational framework of Census 2027.
Officers of Directorate of Census Operations Meghalaya – S Chatterjee, B Basumatary, Aibor Sanglyne and Donbok Syiemsadd – gave presentations on enumeration procedures, persons to be counted, census questions, Census Act and Rules and digital tools including CMMS, SE Portal, mobile app and Enumeration Block Creation Portal.
Members of SLCCC, Divisional Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners and District Census Officers attended the conference.
