Household Income Survey Scheduled for 2026
The National Sample Survey (NSS), renowned for its extensive household surveys since 1950, is set to embark on a significant initiative to conduct a comprehensive survey on income distribution across India. Despite its long history and numerous pilot attempts, the NSS has yet to execute a nationwide income survey. Recognizing the critical need for such data to understand the evolving economic landscape, the NSS is now prioritizing this initiative, aiming to shed light on the structural changes in the Indian economy over the past 75 years.
Historical Context of NSS Surveys
The National Sample Survey has a rich history of conducting surveys that provide essential data for policymaking. Since its inception, it has focused on various subjects, but a full-scale survey on income distribution has remained elusive. Previous attempts, such as those during the 9th and 14th rounds in the mid-1950s, aimed to gather household income data but did not yield published results. The Integrated Household Survey in the 1960s also sought to capture household income and expenditure but faced challenges, leading to discontinuation. Despite these setbacks, the NSS has continued to explore methods for collecting reliable income data, recognizing its importance for understanding economic dynamics.
Recent Initiatives by NSS
In recent years, the NSS has launched several initiatives to address data gaps in various sectors. These include annual surveys on unincorporated sector enterprises, the services sector, and private sector capital expenditure. Additionally, the NSS has initiated a household income survey, which is crucial for generating insights into income distribution and welfare. These efforts reflect the NSS’s commitment to providing accurate and relevant data that can inform economic policies and strategies.
The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has also played a vital role in these initiatives. By revisiting past survey methodologies and learning from previous experiences, MoSPI aims to create a more effective framework for collecting income data. The establishment of a Technical Expert Group (TEG) signifies a strategic move towards enhancing the quality and reliability of income distribution data.
Formation of the Technical Expert Group
To guide the upcoming income distribution survey, the MoSPI has formed a Technical Expert Group chaired by Dr. Surjit S. Bhalla, a former Executive Director at the International Monetary Fund. This group comprises experts from various fields, including economics and statistics, who will provide insights into survey methodologies, concepts, and definitions. The TEG is tasked with ensuring that the survey incorporates best practices from countries like Australia, the USA, Canada, and South Africa.
The TEG’s responsibilities include finalizing the survey design, sampling methods, and estimation techniques. Additionally, the group will assess the impact of technology adoption on household income, ensuring that the survey remains relevant in a rapidly changing economic environment. The TEG’s expertise will be instrumental in shaping the survey, which is tentatively scheduled for 2026.
Composition and Role of the Technical Expert Group
The Technical Expert Group is composed of a diverse range of professionals, including former professors and economists from prestigious institutions. Members include Shri Aloke Kar from the Indian Statistical Institute, Prof. Sonalde Desai from the National Council of Applied Economic Research, and Prof. Praveen Jha from Jawaharlal Nehru University, among others. This collective expertise will enhance the survey’s credibility and effectiveness.
The TEG may also seek assistance from additional subject matter experts as needed, ensuring a comprehensive approach to the survey. By inviting specialists to participate in meetings, the group aims to address specific challenges and requirements that may arise during the survey process. This collaborative effort underscores the NSS’s commitment to producing high-quality data that can drive informed policymaking in India.
Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Sports, Editor’s Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.
