India’s ongoing national census faces significant obstacles as extreme summer temperatures and public reluctance hinder progress. Enumerators in Delhi, Gurugram, Gorakhpur, Chandauli, Punjab, Maharashtra and Bhopal report that intense heat, low public awareness and hesitation to share personal data are major barriers.
In multiple cities, field workers note that residents often refuse entry, withhold income and property details, provide false contact information or question the need for financial disclosures. Many teams spend long hours outdoors in temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius.
Delhi: In the capital, census staff observed widespread caution among residents about revealing personal information. Teachers assigned to South Delhi neighborhoods reported low awareness levels. Households frequently give partial answers or decline to discuss assets, especially in wealthier areas where occupants are often absent during daytime. Village zones saw occasional confrontations over property questions, while slum residents showed greater willingness, hoping for future welfare benefits. Some expressed concerns about potential tax scrutiny.
Kanpur: Teachers in Uttar Pradesh continued duties during summer breaks despite harsh conditions. They start early and finish by midday. Initial reluctance fades after explanations about policy benefits, with rural residents often more cooperative than urban gated communities. Digital self-registration by youth has reduced some workload.
Mumbai: ASHA workers in Maharashtra visit 10 to 12 homes daily under intense sun, facing similar challenges with data collection amid high temperatures.
