The first census in India began in 1871, during British rule. This monumental effort aimed to gather detailed information about the country’s population, which was crucial for administrative and governance purposes. The British administration initiated this census to understand the demographic makeup of the diverse and vast Indian subcontinent.

The census process was extensive and complex, considering India’s size and population diversity. It covered various aspects such as population size, distribution, and social, economic, and cultural characteristics. Despite facing numerous challenges like linguistic diversity, geographic obstacles, and widespread illiteracy, the census was a significant achievement.

The data collected provided insights into the population’s age, gender, occupation, and religious affiliations. This information was instrumental in shaping policies related to taxation, education, health, and public administration. It also laid the foundation for more systematic and periodic censuses in the future.

The 1871 census marked the beginning of a continuous series of decennial (every ten years) censuses, which have become an integral part of India’s statistical system. These censuses have evolved over time, incorporating advanced methodologies and technologies to provide more accurate and comprehensive data, crucial for the country’s planning and development.