The Census 2027 pre-test exercise will be conducted from November 10 to 30, 2025, in three selected districts of Tamil Nadu. This pre-test is an essential preparatory phase designed to evaluate the new concepts, procedures, questionnaires, and digital tools to be used in the main census.The districts chosen for the pre-test are Anchetty Taluk in Krishnagiri District (rural), part of R.K. Pet Taluk in Tiruvallur District (rural), and Mangadu Municipality in Kancheepuram District (urban).
These areas were selected to assess challenges in diverse environments such as forested, border, and rapidly growing urban zones.
For the first time, data collection during the pre-test will be carried out using mobile applications, and digital layout maps will be prepared.
The entire operation will be managed through the Census Management and Monitoring System (CMMS) Portal, allowing real-time supervision.
An option for self-enumeration through digital means will be available from November 1 to 7, 2025. The Directorate of Census Operations, Tamil Nadu, will coordinate closely with the state government and conduct training for enumerators and supervisors before fieldwork.
Field operations will be handled by officials from various state departments.The pre-test will help refine tools and processes to ensure the nationwide Census 2027—a fully digital census—is conducted smoothly and efficiently. Citizens in the selected areas are urged to cooperate with census staff to facilitate accurate data collection.
This preparatory exercise anticipates the main census planned to complete by March 2027, marking India’s first fully digital population enumeration.