Census 2027: Live-in couples will also be considered married in the census, Central Government issued new rules for 33 questions

News India Live, Digital Desk: The upcoming Census of India 2027 (16th Census) is going to write a new story of social change. According to the latest guidelines (FAQs) issued by the Central Government, if a couple is living in a ‘live-in relationship’ and they consider their relationship to be a “stable union”, then they will be considered ‘married’ in the census. This is the first time that in the official census of India, accepting the social reality, a clear option has been given to keep live-in couples in the category of married couples. The government has launched a special ‘self-enumeration’ portal for the census on Monday (30 March 2026). In the frequently asked questions (FAQs) asked on this portal, it has been made clear that if a couple declares themselves married when the enumerator comes to the house or while filling the information online, then no kind of documentary proof (Marriage Certificate) will be demanded from them. Only the information given by the citizens will be considered final. The country’s first ‘digital census’ will be conducted in two phases. This census of 2027 will be completely digital, which will be completed in two phases: First phase (April to September 2026): There will be ‘houselisting’ (listing of houses) and housing census. During this period, a total of 33 questions will be asked, which will include the condition of the house, facilities and the number of married couples living. Phase II (February 2027): This will be the main census of the population, in which personal details like name, age, religion, marital status and occupation will be collected. Why was this big decision taken? Experts believe that the government has taken this step in view of various decisions of the Supreme Court (where couples living together for a long time have been given rights like married) and the changing thinking of the modern society. This will not only make the population data more accurate, but will also help in protecting the rights of live-in women and children. Highlights of Census 2027: Digital India: For the first time, data will be collected through mobile app and web portal. Self-enumeration: Citizens will be able to enter their details themselves on the portal. Privacy: The data will be completely protected under the Census Act 1948 and it will not be used as evidence in the court. (Mascots): Two mascots named ‘Pragati’ and ‘Vikas’ have also been launched for this census.