DIMAPUR: As part of the nationwide preparations for the Census of India 2027, three day training programmes for Field Trainers commenced in Dimapur and Phek on May 27, covering officials from multiple districts.
In Dimapur, the programme was held at Circuit House for officials representing Dimapur, Niuland, Chümoukedima, Peren and Mon districts. Addressing the inaugural session, deputy commissioner and principal census officer, Dr. Tinojongshi Chang, underlined the importance of preparedness, coordination and accuracy in carrying out census responsibilities. He reminded that the census exercise remains one of the largest administrative undertakings in the country and urged officials to discharge their duties with dedication, sincerity and professionalism.
Highlighting the significance of the census, Dr. Chang explained that operations in India have been conducted under the Census Rules, 1990, involving planning, collection, processing, analysis and dissemination of demographic, economic and social data at the smallest geographical level. He noted that population census operations have been conducted every ten years since 1872, with the last completed in 2011.
Dr. Chang further informed that Census 2027 will mark a major transition with adoption of digital tools and modern technology for data collection and monitoring. The upcoming exercise will be conducted through digital platforms and mobile applications supported by real time monitoring systems. New features such as digital house listing, digital data collection and use of Artificial Intelligence for enumeration and monitoring are being introduced.
He stated that the first phase—House Listing of Housing Census—is scheduled from July 1 to 30, 2026, with self enumeration available from June 15 to 30, 2026, while the Population Enumeration phase will be conducted in February 2027. Preparation of House Listing Blocks (HLBs) and layout maps will form a crucial component of Phase I activities.
During the first day of training, sessions focused on legal aspects of Census 2027, concepts and definitions, operational procedures, engagement with enumerators and supervisors, verification of HLB boundaries, preparation of layout maps and installation of the HLO mobile application. Subsequent sessions will include recap and quiz exercises, intensive modules on HLO questions, practical demonstrations of filling responses through the app, procedures for supervisor verification, and roles of enumerators during self enumeration.
Data security, confidentiality and proper usage of digital tools will also be emphasized. On the final day, trainees will receive orientation on the Census Act and Rules, household interaction techniques, handling refusals and sensitive situations, and role play exercises with field visits for simulated data collection.
In Phek, the three day training programme for Field Trainers of Phek, Meluri and Kiphire districts commenced on May 27 at the DC’s Conference Hall, Phek.
Addressing the trainees, deputy commissioner and principal census officer, Rhosietho Nguori, stressed the importance of professionalism, uniform understanding of concepts and strict adherence to SOPs and protocols during data collection.
In her welcome address, ADC and district census officer, Thejakhrienuo Nisa, highlighted the crucial role of Field Trainers in ensuring smooth conduct of the census.
The opening programme was chaired by EAC Phek and nodal officer, Census Cell, Er. Mechietsho Koza. The master trainers for the programme include Teisovil Neikha, associate professor, Kohima Science College, Jotsoma, and Solo Lorin, assistant professor, Phek Government College, assisted by Imtimendang B. Longchar. The training will continue till May 29.