In which year B. S. Guha’s racial survey was included as a part of Census?

Introduction
The Census, a systematic collection of demographic data, serves as a crucial tool for governments, policymakers, and researchers to understand population trends and make informed decisions. Over the years, various countries have incorporated different surveys and methodologies into their census processes to gather comprehensive information about their populations. In this comprehensive solution, we will delve into the inclusion of B. S. Guha's racial survey as part of a Census, exploring its historical context and significance.
B. S. Guha's Racial Survey in the Census
B. S. Guha's racial survey was included as a part of the Census in the year 1931 in British India. This survey marked a significant departure from previous census methodologies by introducing questions related to race, caste, and tribe, aimed at classifying and categorizing the diverse population of India based on racial characteristics.
Historical Context
The decision to include B. S. Guha's racial survey in the 1931 Census was influenced by various factors, including colonial ideologies, emerging nationalist movements, and the growing interest in anthropological studies. During the British colonial period, racial theories were prevalent, and the British administration sought to categorize and classify the diverse populations of India based on racial hierarchies. Additionally, the rise of nationalist sentiments in India prompted the colonial authorities to gather data that could potentially be used to reinforce their policies of divide and rule.
Methodology of the Racial Survey
B. S. Guha's racial survey employed a methodology that involved the classification of individuals into different racial categories based on physical characteristics such as skin color, facial features, and hair texture. Enumerators were trained to assess and classify individuals according to predefined racial categories, which were often informed by colonial racial theories.
Critiques and Controversies
The inclusion of B. S. Guha's racial survey in the Census was met with criticism and controversy, both during the colonial period and in subsequent years. Critics argued that the survey perpetuated racist ideologies and reinforced caste-based discrimination by essentializing and categorizing individuals based on superficial physical attributes. Furthermore, the methodology of the survey was deemed unscientific and unreliable, leading to concerns about the accuracy and validity of the data collected.
Legacy and Impact
Despite its shortcomings, B. S. Guha's racial survey had a lasting impact on the study of race and ethnicity in India. The data collected through the survey contributed to the construction of racial categories and identities, shaping social perceptions and policies related to caste and tribe. The legacy of the racial survey continues to influence discussions about identity, representation, and social justice in contemporary India.
Conclusion
In conclusion, B. S. Guha's racial survey, included as part of the 1931 Census in British India, represented a significant moment in the history of census-taking and anthropological studies in the region. While the survey reflected colonial ideologies and perpetuated racial stereotypes, it also sparked debates and critiques that have contributed to a deeper understanding of race, ethnicity, and identity in India. By examining the historical context, methodology, critiques, and impact of B. S. Guha's racial survey, we gain insights into the complexities of census-taking and the role of anthropological knowledge in shaping societal perceptions and policies.