Q. With reference to the National Population Register (NPR) and Census, consider the following statements:
1. The Census is conducted under the Census Act 1948 whereas NPR is created under the provisions of the Citizenship Act.
2. The NPR will have only demographic information and no biometric data of individuals will be collected.
3. NPR database is used for better targeting of the benefits and services under the government schemes.
4. All information collected under the Census is confidential and will not be shared with any Government or private agency.
How many statements given above are correct?
Exp) Option c is the correct answer.
Statement 1 is correct. The Census is a statutory exercise conducted under the provisions of the Census Act 1948 and Rules made there under. On the other hand, the NPR is being created under the provisions of the Citizenship Act and Rules.
Statement 2 is incorrect. The NPR database would contain demographic as well as biometric particulars. The NPR would have the data of every person enumerated during the Census operations irrespective of age. It would also have the biometric data and UID Number of every person of age 15 years and above. National Identity Cards will be given in a phased manner to all usual residents by the Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner, India.
Statement 3 is correct. The NPR is a comprehensive identity database that helps in better targeting of the benefits and services under the Government schemes/programmes, improve planning and help strengthen security of the country.
Statement 4 is correct. All information collected under the Census is confidential and will not be shared with any agency – Government or private. Certain information collected under the NPR will be published in the local areas for public scrutiny and invitation of objections. After the NPR has been finalized, the database will be used only within the Government.
