Himachal Pradesh Transfers 2 IAS Officers; Announces Fully Digital Census 2027 in Two Phases Starting June 2026
In a move aimed at strengthening administrative efficiency and modernising governance systems, the Himachal Pradesh government has announced the transfer and posting of two Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers while simultaneously unveiling a detailed roadmap for conducting Census 2027 in a fully digital format.
According to an official notification issued by the Department of Personnel, the transfers were carried out in the public interest following recommendations of the Civil Services Board and have received approval from the Governor. The order was formally communicated by Chief Secretary Sanjay Gupta, directing immediate compliance by all concerned departments.
As part of the reshuffle, IAS officer R. Selvam, who was previously awaiting a posting, has been appointed as Financial Commissioner (Appeals) in Shimla. He replaces IAS officer Kamlesh Kumar Pant, who has now been relieved of the additional charge. The appointment is seen as part of a broader administrative restructuring aimed at enhancing efficiency in decision-making and grievance redressal mechanisms within the state administration.
In another significant appointment, IAS officer Naveen Tanwar has been posted as Special Secretary in the Department of Youth Services and Sports. Like Selvam, Tanwar was also awaiting a formal assignment prior to this posting. His new role is expected to contribute to strengthening youth-focused programmes and sports development initiatives across Himachal Pradesh.
Alongside these administrative changes, the state government has made a major announcement regarding Census 2027, which will be conducted entirely through digital means. This marks a significant shift from traditional enumeration methods and reflects the government’s focus on leveraging technology to improve accuracy, transparency, and efficiency in data collection.
The census exercise will be carried out in two phases. The first phase, known as the House Listing and Housing Census, is scheduled to take place from June 16 to July 15, 2026. During this period, officials will collect detailed information related to housing conditions, availability of basic amenities, and household assets. Notably, residents will also be provided with a 15-day window for self-enumeration, enabling them to submit their information online before field verification begins.
The second phase, Population Enumeration, is planned for February 2027. However, in snow-bound and geographically challenging regions of the state, this phase will be conducted earlier, in September 2026, to account for weather-related accessibility issues. The government has indicated that special arrangements will be made to ensure comprehensive coverage even in remote and difficult terrains.
Authorities have also issued a strict warning regarding compliance with census procedures. Any individual found obstructing census officials or providing false information will face legal action under the Census Act, 1948. The penalties may include a fine of up to ₹1,000 and imprisonment of up to three years, underscoring the importance of accurate data for effective policy planning and governance.
Overall, the dual focus on administrative reshuffling and the introduction of a fully digital census highlights Himachal Pradesh’s commitment to governance reform, technological integration, and improved public service delivery.
