Census Data Research Workstation inaugurated at KU

Srinagar, Mar 7: To enhance demographic research and provide structured access to census data for academic studies and policy analysis the Population Research Centre (PRC), University of Kashmir (KU), inaugurated its Census Data Research Workstation (CDRW) in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), Government of India (GoI) at the main campus here on Friday.

A statement of KU issued here said that the Census Data Research Workstation will provide stakeholders including researchers and scholars with access to extensive census records and enable them to analyse population trends, socio-economic indicators, and developmental patterns. This initiative will support evidence-based research, helping in better policy planning and decision-making.

On the occasion, the university also signed MoU with the Office of the Registrar General of India (ORGI).

In her message, Vice Chancellor KU Prof Nilofer Khan said, "The establishment of the Census Data Research Centre marks a significant milestone in fostering data-driven research and informed policymaking. We are committed to advancing research that serves society, and the MoU reflects our dedication to knowledge-sharing and institutional synergy. I extend my gratitude to all stakeholders for making this initiative a reality."

The event was attended by key administrative officers of the varsity and senior functionaries from the ORGI, MoHFW and Directorate of Census Operations (DCO) J&K, including Dean Academic Affairs KU, Prof Shariefuddin Pirzada, Dean Research KU, Prof Mohammad Sultan Bhat, Registrar KU Prof Naseer Iqbal, Director General Statistics MoHFW, Kal Singh, Director MoHFW, Kumar Sundaram, Deputy Director, DCO J&K, Manmeet Singh and Deputy Director, ORGI, New Delhi, Sandeep Rai.

Speaking at the inauguration of CDRW, Dean of Academic Affairs KU, Prof Shariefuddin Pirzada emphasized the importance of demographic research in shaping effective policies and said “This workstation will provide researchers with valuable data and help them contribute meaningfully to socio-economic planning and development.”

In his remarks, Dean Research KU, Prof Mohammad Sultan Bhat highlighted the role of reliable data in academic research.

“Access to census data will enable researchers to analyze demographic shifts and their implications on key sectors like health, education, and urban development,” he said.

Registrar KU, Prof Naseer Iqbal, emphasised the workstation’s role in enhancing research excellence and said that it will help scholars and policymakers make informed, data-driven decisions for effective developmental planning.

Coordinator, Population Research Centre, KU Syed Khursheed Ahmad, highlighted the initiative as a valuable platform for structured access to census data for research and policy.