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If a couple considers their relationship as a stable union, they should be recorded as a married couple, whether during self-enumeration or when an enumerator visits the household.

Live-In Couples In ‘Stable Union’ To Be Counted As Married In Census 2027. Representational image
For Census 2027, couples in live-in relationships who see themselves as being in a “stable union” will be treated as married during the counting process. The clarification has been shared in the FAQs on the self-enumeration portal.
What the rules say?
According to the official response, if a couple considers their relationship as a stable union, they should be recorded as a married couple, whether during self-enumeration or when an enumerator visits the household. Although this has now been formally clarified, officials said that even in earlier census exercises, unmarried couples who declared themselves as married were recorded in the same way.
Houselisting phase and timeline
The number of married couples in a household is one of 33 questions asked during the houselisting phase. This phase will run for 45 days between April 1 and September 30, with dates notified separately by each state and Union territory. The first 15 days will be for self-enumeration, followed by a 30-day period for field visits by enumerators.
Respondents are not required to provide any documents. Information is to be given based on their knowledge and belief, and enumerators must record it as declared.
How self-enumeration works?
Self-enumeration will begin in the NDMC area of Delhi on April 1 through a dedicated online portal. The facility will be available in English and 15 Indian languages. It can be completed by the head of the household or any responsible adult after OTP-based verification. Details of all usual members of the household can be entered using a single access.
Importance of correct location marking
A key step is accurately marking the house location. Users must select the district, enter the PIN code, and provide details of their area. A geotagged map will appear, and the respondent must place the marker exactly on their house. Incorrect marking may lead to the data not appearing in the enumerator’s system.
Submission and verification
After entering details about housing and amenities, the form can be submitted. It can also be filled in parts during the 15-day period and saved as a draft. Once submitted, an SE ID will be generated, which must be shared with the enumerator during their visit for verification and final upload.
The self-enumeration portal can only be accessed within India. All submitted data will be encrypted and stored on secure government servers. Changes after submission can only be made by the enumerator.
Delhi, India, India
March 30, 2026, 1:25 PM IST
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