Counting Today, Shaping Tomorrow: Bhaderwah Campus, Census Directorate Join Hands To Drive Awareness On Census 2027
Amir Iqbal Khan
Bhadarwah, Aug 20: Emphasising the critical role of robust demographic data in nation building, the Directorate of Census Operations J&K and Ladakh in collaboration with Bhaderwah Campus of the University of Jammu on Wednesday organised a seminar titled “Census 2027, Counting Today, Shaping Tomorrow”.
The awareness programme aimed to sensitise academic stakeholders, students and local administrators about the necessity of accurate, inclusive and comprehensive data collection for evidence based policy formulation and equitable governance.
Addressing the gathering as the chief guest, Director of Census Operations (J&K and Ladakh) Amit Sharma urged students to act as ambassadors of census awareness to ensure grassroots participation.
"Accurate data is the bedrock of transparent administration and future planning. Every citizen has a shared responsibility to ensure that the upcoming census exercise is comprehensive and leaves no one behind," Sharma said calling upon youth to spread the message of active civic engagement.
In a message, Rector of Bhaderwah Campus Prof Rahul Gupta noted that census figures serve as the ultimate benchmark for demographic, social and economic indicators.
"Accurate census data forms the foundation for effective governance, equitable resource allocation and long term development planning. Collaborative programmes like these are essential to prepare the academic community for ground level involvement," Gupta said.
Officiating Rector and Head of the English Department Prof Rakesh Sharma along with Academic Coordinator Dr Kuljit Singh underscored the value of demographic mapping in tracking societal shifts and tailoring regional development policies.
Technical sessions were followed by Deputy Director Manmeet Singh and Assistant Director Balbir Singh's delivering detailed presentations outlining the methodology, operational framework and technological interventions planned for Census 2027.
As part of the outreach initiative, an inter departmental student debate competition was held on demographic trends and data integrity. Winning participants were felicitated with merit awards alongside certificates distributed to all contestants.
The event witnessed the participation of key civil administration officials including Additional Deputy Commissioner Sunil Kumar Butyal, Tehsildar Kamal Preet Singh, Assistant Director Vijay Kumar, faculty members and a large number of students.
External Relations Officer Arif Haleem presented the formal vote of thanks.
