1951 Census of India

The 1951 Census of India was the first national population enumeration conducted after the country gained independence in 1947. It marked a significant milestone in India's demographic history, providing comprehensive data that was crucial for post-colonial planning and development. The census was conducted in two phases: the first phase included a house-listing operation, while the second phase focused on the actual enumeration of the population, which took place from March 1 to March 25, 1951. The census revealed a total population of approximately 361 million, reflecting a modest growth rate compared to the previous decade. It provided vital insights into the social, economic, and demographic characteristics of the Indian populace, serving as a foundational reference for subsequent policy-making and research.