The second phase—the actual population enumeration—will commence nationwide in February 2027. However, in the snow-bound regions of Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, this exercise will be conducted earlier, in September 2026. During this phase, data will be collected on individual details such as name, age, gender, marital status, caste, religion, education, language, disability status, occupation, migration history, and—in the case of married women—fertility-related information.
A new feature has also been introduced in this census: "Self-Enumeration," or the option for individuals to submit their data themselves. In addition to the traditional method—where an enumerator visits homes to collect information—citizens will now have the option to fill out their details via a dedicated web portal. Subsequently, an enumerator will visit to verify the submitted information.
However, not all types of households will be eligible for this facility. Only "Normal Households" will be permitted to utilize the self-enumeration option. According to the 2011 Census, a "Normal Household" is defined as a family unit whose members reside together and typically share a common kitchen. These members may be either relatives or non-relatives.
Self-enumeration is permissible only during the initial phase. During this period, the portal will remain open for 15 days—prior to the commencement of the house-listing operation in the respective state or Union Territory—to enable citizens to submit their information at their own convenience.