Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
A census is an official systematic count of a population. It gathers demographic, social, and economic data about the residents of a country. In India, the census is conducted once every ten years (decennially) and is the most comprehensive source of data for government planning and resource allocation.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The history of the Indian census involves two important dates that students often confuse:
1. The Year 1872: The first-ever attempt to conduct a census in India took place in 1872 under the administration of Lord Mayo. However, this census was not "complete" because it was not synchronous—different parts of the country were surveyed at different times, and many regions were not covered at all.
2. The Year 1881: The first "complete" or "synchronous" census was conducted in 1881 under Lord Ripon. This census was conducted simultaneously across the entire British India and used a uniform methodology. This marked the beginning of the regular decennial census tradition that continues to this day.
3. Other Years: 1901 was the first census of the 20th century, and 1951 was the first census conducted in independent India.
The question specifically asks for the "first complete" census, which points directly to 1881.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The first complete and synchronous census of India was carried out in 1881. Therefore, option (B) is correct.