Census 2026: Live-in couples can be counted as married, Govt releases 33 census questions; Check here

The Indian government has clarified that live-in coules in stable relationships can be counted as married in Census 2026. Through 33 FAQs released for the first phase starting April 1, authorities aim to guide citizens on accurate self-enumeration.

Post Published By: Sona Saini

Updated : 30 March 2026, 1:11 PM IST

India’s Census FAQ Clarifies Live-In Relationships as Married Status

New Delhi: The Central Government has issued a major update regarding the 2026 Census. The government has clarified that if a live-in couple considers their relationship permanent, they will be included in the "married" category during the census. This information is provided in the FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) issued for the census.

Census will be conducted in two phases

The government-launched self-enumeration portal has been launched for the 16th Census. This portal will be open for two phases - House Listing and Housing Census (HLO) and Population Enumeration. Through this portal, people will be able to enter their information themselves, making the process easy and transparent.

33 Questions Will Be Asked in First Phase

A total of 33 questions will be asked in the first phase of the census, starting April 1. These questions will include information ranging from household structure to family status. This includes questions such as the material used in the floor, walls, and roof of the house, the number of married couples living in the house, the gender of the head of the household, and the availability of basic amenities.

Key Information Related to Home and Family

The census process will first record the building number and house number. Next, information will be collected about the condition, use, and number of people living in the house. Information about the head of the household, their name, gender, social class (Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe, or Other), and property ownership will also be collected.

Self-Enumeration Portal for Easy Participation

The government states that the self-enumeration portal aims to facilitate citizen participation. This portal will help people answer questions correctly, ensuring more accurate and reliable data. Clear guidelines have been provided, particularly in matters such as live-in relationships, to eliminate confusion.

Emphasis on Accurate Data

The government believes that accurate census data plays a vital role in formulating national policies and plans. Therefore, every citizen has been appealed to provide correct and complete information, so that better plans can be made for the development of the country.