The Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India announced that the first phase of the Census will run from April 1 to September 30, 2026. "Houselisting operations will be conducted between 1 April 2026 and 30 September 2026 across all States and Union Territories, during a 30-day period specified by each State/UT," the notification stated. There will be a chance for people to self-enumerate 15 days before the house-to-house listing starts, following the schedule set by each State or UT. This Census will be the first digital Census in India and the first to collect caste information since independence. The government also promised a strong publicity campaign to ensure nationwide awareness and participation. The Union Cabinet approved the Census plan in December at an estimated cost of ₹11,718.24 crore.