What are the recent developments in the Census of India

1. The Census of India, which was initially scheduled to be conducted in 2021, has been delayed until at least October 2024. This delay is due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on data collection processes. 2. The Indian government has decided to combine the Census with the National Population Register (NPR) exercise. NPR is a process of creating a comprehensive identity database of every usual resident in the country. 3. The delay will provide more time for planning and implementation, ensuring a more accurate and efficient census. It also allows for the utilization of the latest technology and data collection methods. 4. This decision to combine the Census and NPR has sparked some controversy and concerns over privacy issues and possible implications for citizens whose documentation may be questioned. 5. In other news, the Ayodhya airport in Uttar Pradesh has started operating ahead of the consecration ceremony for the Ram Temple in January 2022. This new facility is expected to boost tourism in the region and improve connectivity.