*_Government Issues Notification for 2027 Census_* *Why in News:* The Indian Government has issued a notification to initiate the Census process with the reference date set for March 1, 2027, with specific exceptions for some areas. *Key Points:* * The Census reference date is set for March 1, 2027, except for Ladakh, snow-bound areas of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, where the reference date will be October 1, 2026. * The Census will be conducted in two phases: 1. Phase 1 (House Listing Operation): Collecting data on housing conditions, assets, and amenities of households. 2. Phase 2 (Population Enumeration): Collecting demographic, socio-economic, cultural, and other personal details of individuals. * For the first time, Caste enumeration will be part of the Census. * Approximately 34 lakh enumerators and supervisors, along with around 1.3 lakh Census functionaries, will be deployed. * The Census will be conducted using digital tools, including mobile applications. * Self-enumeration will be available, allowing individuals to fill out their own Census forms. * This will be the 16th national Census of India and the 8th since independence.