The Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation (MoSPI) is set to launch a series of transformative surveys in January 2025, covering crucial sectors like health, education, telecommunications, and labor dynamics. Conducted by the National Statistics Office (NSO), these surveys are designed to deliver detailed, district-level insights that will aid in crafting targeted policies to address regional and national challenges.

Comprehensive Overview of the Surveys

The NSO’s 2025 initiatives will include:

• Social Consumption in Health: Gathering data on healthcare access, affordability, and public health trends.
• Comprehensive Modular Survey for Telecom and ICT Skills: Exploring the penetration of digital technologies and assessing ICT skill levels.
• Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS): Offering a granular view of employment and unemployment trends in urban and rural areas.
• Annual Survey on Unincorporated Enterprises (ASUSE): Examining the economic health and operational dynamics of unincorporated businesses in non-agricultural sectors.

These surveys aim to provide a multidimensional understanding of India’s socio-economic landscape, informing policies across key development areas.

Innovations in Sampling for Localized Data

A significant improvement in these surveys is the updated sample design, which now enables district-level estimates. This change ensures that the data collected is not only nationally representative but also highly relevant to local governance. For urban regions, the PLFS will provide short-term monthly and quarterly labour data, while rural estimates will be delivered annually, offering a comprehensive understanding of employment patterns.

Advanced Techniques for Data Collection

To ensure accuracy and efficiency, the NSO will employ advanced methodologies:

• Scientific Sampling: Households will be carefully chosen using a statistically robust sampling method, ensuring data represents the broader population.
• Digital Tools: Trained enumerators will collect data using tablets equipped with the e-SIGMA software, enabling real-time data entry and analysis.
  This digital-first approach minimizes errors, speeds up processing, and ensures timely insights.

Key Focus Areas of the Surveys

1. Understanding Labour Market Dynamics with PLFS

The Periodic Labour Force Survey will focus on capturing employment and unemployment indicators. Its unique approach includes:

• Quarterly urban employment data, providing real-time labour trends.
• Annual rural employment estimates, giving a long-term view of labour market dynamics.

2. Assessing the Non-Agricultural Sector with ASUSE

The Annual Survey on Unincorporated Enterprises will spotlight India’s non-agricultural sector, which significantly contributes to the economy. It will examine:

• The number of workers and their roles.
• Operational features like registration and ownership patterns.
• Gross Value Added (GVA) metrics to evaluate sector productivity.

These insights will guide policymakers and businesses in making informed decisions.

Collaborative Efforts with State Governments

The success of these surveys lies in the collaboration between the NSO and State Directorates of Economics & Statistics (DESs). State governments will use the collected data to generate district-level estimates, ensuring policies are tailored to local needs and priorities.

Leveraging Technology for Better Outcomes

The integration of digital tools, such as the e-SIGMA software, streamlines the data collection process. By using tablets for real-time data entry, the NSO ensures that information is both accurate and quickly available for analysis. This tech-driven approach enhances the reliability and timeliness of survey results.

Broader Socio-Economic Impacts

The insights generated from these surveys will play a pivotal role in shaping policies across various domains:

• Employment: Helping tackle unemployment by identifying trends and gaps.
• Healthcare: Informing better allocation of resources and programs.
• Education and ICT Skills: Driving digital inclusion and skills development.

By providing a detailed picture of India’s socio-economic environment, these surveys will contribute to inclusive growth and equitable development.

Key Terms to Understand

• NSS (National Sample Survey): Essential for gathering socio-economic data.
• e-SIGMA: Software enabling efficient and real-time data collection.
• PLFS: Tracks employment and unemployment trends comprehensively.
• ASUSE: Focuses on understanding the unincorporated non-agricultural sector.
• GVA (Gross Value Added): Measures economic productivity within sectors.

A Step Toward Data-Driven Policy Making

With these surveys, MoSPI and NSO are laying the groundwork for more informed governance. The district-level focus, use of cutting-edge technology, and collaboration with state governments will provide the insights needed to address regional disparities and drive nationwide progress.