In the demographic history of India, in which year was the first official all-India synchronous census operation conducted?

Introduction / Context:
Census operations are crucial for understanding population trends, planning development and administering a modern state. In India, the census became a regular feature under British rule. Exam questions often ask about the year of the first official all India census because it marks the beginning of a continuous demographic record for the country.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question asks for the year of the first official census operation covering all of India in a regular, synchronous manner.
• The options include 1841, 1881, 1921, 1961 and 1872.
• We need to distinguish between early, partial counts and the first standardised all India census.

Concept / Approach:
There were some earlier attempts at counting population in parts of India, such as the 1872 exercise, but they were not synchronised or uniform across the entire country. The first synchronous and officially recognised all India census was conducted in 1881. Since then, censuses have generally occurred every ten years. Therefore, recognising 1881 as the starting point of the regular census series is the key to answering this question.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Standard references on the census in India clearly state that the census series begins officially in 1881, with subsequent censuses every ten years. The 1872 enumeration is usually described as a non synchronous or experimental count, which is why exams emphasise 1881 as the correct answer for the first official and regular census operation.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• 1841: There was no comprehensive all India census at this time.
• 1921: Known as a census year with particular demographic significance, but not the first all India census.
• 1961: A post independence census year, far later than the first official one.
• 1872: An important early enumeration, but incomplete and not synchronous across the entire country.

Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes pick 1872 because it is earlier and associated with census activity. The key is to remember the difference between an early partial enumeration and the first fully synchronous all India census. For competitive exams, 1881 is the standard answer to this question.

Final Answer:
Correct answer: 1881.