First phase of sixth census to begin from March 15

ISLAMABAD: The sixth census will be divided into two phases, with the first one beginning from March 15 to April 15, while the other phase will start from April 25 to May 25, it emerged on Sunday.

State Minister for Information and Major General Asif Ghafoor were holding a joint press conference, in which they gave a detailed briefing on the subject of upcoming census.

The DG ISPR said that the Pakistan Army will provide complete security during the sixth census and 0.2 million troops will be deployed.

He said that upon provision of wrong information, a fine of Rs 50,000 and six months of imprisonment will be given to offenders.

The DG ISPR said that people should immediately report any suspicious activity.

He said that 800 master trainers have trained more people to facilitate during the drive.

For first time third-gender to be part of census, Marriyum Aurangzeb

The state minister said that for census locals will be utilised, adding that for the first time transgender persons will be included in the population census.

Aurangzeb said that a budget of Rs 18 billion has been allotted for the census. She added that six billion rupees are reserved for Army and civilians each for their facilitation work.

She said that three days have been set for the census, adding that those with dual nationality will also be a part of it.

Green-card holding Afghan refugees will also be included in the drive, she added.

The state minister said that one day has been specifically allotted to homeless people.

Over 450,000 government employees have been trained to take part in the sixth census of the country which will begin on March 15.

According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, teams that will carry out census duties will include a civil servant and military personnel. Security will be ensured jointly by civil and intelligence forces.

During the census, schools will remain open and exams will continue as scheduled.