Ahmedabad: Amid preparations for the nationwide Census 2027, the issue of mobile phones and technical infrastructure has emerged as a major concern in Gujarat. The Akhil Bharatiya Rashtriya Shaikshik Mahasangh Gujarat has submitted a representation to the state govt and the Census Directorate, seeking proper mobile devices or financial assistance for teachers and supervisors engaged in census work.According to the organization, the central govt plans to conduct Census 2027 through a mobile application. However, the app is reportedly designed to function smoothly only on Android 12 or higher versions with at least 4GB RAM. The association stated that many teachers and employees in Gujarat continue to use smartphones running Android 10 or older versions, which may stop them from downloading or operating the application efficiently.The Mahasangh has placed four major demands before govt. It has urged authorities to provide compatible smartphones or tablets to employees who do not possess suitable devices. If that is not possible, the organization has asked govt to modify the application so it can function on lower-version smartphones as well.The association also sought alternative arrangements until suitable devices or updated software become available. Additionally, it requested financial support or an allowance for teachers, enumerators, and supervisors. The organization specifically suggested a minimum allowance of Rs 15,000 if employees are forced to purchase new mobile phones at their own expense.
