India conducts census of 1.4 billion people
For the first time since 1931 – before independence – India is conducting a census to include caste information, having previously resisted it for fear of entrenching inequality and heightening social tensions
Height/colour corresponds to density, based on 2011 census
Although only formally recognised by Hinduism, 98% of Indians identify as member of caste. Hundreds can be identified just by surname
Census First Phase
Apr-Sep 2026
Housing, facilities and living conditions
Second Phase
Sep-Apr 2027
Social, economic, religion and caste
WORLDS MOST POPULOUS NATION
DENSITY
>2,000 people per km2
1,000-2,000
500-1,000
250-500
100-250
<100
Uttar Pradesh 241 million people
New Delhi
Kolkata
Bangalor
Mumbai
INDIA’S CASTES
Ancient system of social hierarchy, determines social standing, access to resources, education and economic opportunity
General category:
Includes Hindu castes such as Brahmins (priests), Kshatriyas (warriors), Vaishyas (merchants, peasants), Shudras (labourers)
SC: Dalits, socially disadvantaged “untouchables”
ST: Adivasis, over 700 mainly remote, non-Hindu tribes
OBC: Between traditional upper and lower castes
General Category
30%
Scheduled Castes (SC)
25%
Scheduled Tribes (ST)
9%
Other Backward Classes (OBC)
35%
Don’t know / Refused not shown
Sources: BBC, Pew Research Center, The Independent
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