Caste census from Dec 15

“We have asked all the district collectors and other departments to spare their staffers. The method will be almost similar to that of general census. But unlike census,in which every enumerator had to cover two blocks,here the enumerator will require to cover four blocks. So we will require slightly less number of people,” she said.

She further said that since the services of primary teachers cannot be taken for this task as per new guidelines,“we have plans to use manpower from all other cadres,including non-teaching staff”. Anganwadi workers can also be used if required,Teotia said,adding that district collectors will select the enumerators as per the local requirement and availability.

“Giving information of caste and religion is not mandatory. Those not willing to disclose their caste or religion can refuse to give these details to the enumerator,” said an official,adding that people will be asked to furnish details like main sources of income,cast and religion,education,and disability,if any,among others.