- The long-delayed Census of India is essential not just for collecting basic population statistics, but as a critical instrument for evidence-based policymaking and resource allocation. - A modern census must capture complex socio-economic realities, migration trends, urbanisation pressures, and employment shifts rather than mere headcounts. - Reliable demographic data is vital for navigating complex federal issues, future parliamentary delimitation, and targeted welfare delivery. - Bridging gaps in data infrastructure helps address structural inequalities and ensures equitable representation across states and social groups. - **Census of India:** The comprehensive decennial enumeration of India's population covering demographic, social, and economic parameters, conducted by the Registrar General and Census Commissioner under the Ministry of Home Affairs. - **Government of India:** The central executive authority of the country responsible for policy-making, administration, governance, and implementing statutory obligations like the national census under the Census Act, 1948. **Introduction** The editorial discusses the significance of conducting the long-overdue Census of India, emphasizing that it must transcend basic headcounts to become a comprehensive tool for capturing socio-economic transitions, migration, and welfare needs to drive effective public policy. **Core Issue and Detailed Points** - The long-delayed Census of India is essential not just for collecting basic population statistics, but as a critical instrument for evidence-based policymaking and resource allocation. - A modern census must capture complex socio-economic realities, migration trends, urbanisation pressures, and employment shifts rather than mere headcounts. - Reliable demographic data is vital for navigating complex federal issues, future parliamentary delimitation, and targeted welfare delivery. - Bridging gaps in data infrastructure helps address structural inequalities and ensures equitable representation across states and social groups. **Key Statutory Bodies, Acts & Concepts** - **Census of India:** The comprehensive decennial enumeration of India's population covering demographic, social, and economic parameters, conducted by the Registrar General and Census Commissioner under the Ministry of Home Affairs. - **Government of India:** The central executive authority of the country responsible for policy-making, administration, governance, and implementing statutory obligations like the national census under the Census Act, 1948.