---
title: "Census of India 1881: First Synchronous Census"
description: "The Census of India 1881 was the first empire-wide enumeration, setting the baseline for India's decennial census and used by researchers and policymakers."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/census-of-india-1881"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- The Census of India 1881 was the first synchronous, empire-wide enumeration of British India, conducted on 17 February 1881 under W.
- C.
- Why is the 1881 census considered the first 'modern' Indian census rather than the 1871–72 one?
- Who administered the Census of India 1881?
- What categories did the 1881 census record, and why are they controversial?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

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In preparing the 1901 Census of India, H.H. Risley built directly on the synchronous framework and caste classifications first established by W\.C. Plowden in the Census of India 1881.

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