How India Counts Itself
Better Data for Better Policy
How India can improve its statistical system with timely surveys, new technology and independence, and a recap of the module.
Good policy depends on good data.
Priorities
- Regular surveys and a timely census.
- Updated base years for GDP, CPI and IIP.
- Independence for statistical agencies.
- Integration of administrative data.
- Open data for researchers.
- Local statistical capacity.
Technology
- Tablets for survey data collection.
- Satellite and big data.
- AI for processing.
Module recap
- MoSPI, the NSO, RBI and ministries produce India’s data.
- Mahalanobis pioneered sample surveys.
- The census was delayed from 2021; the next has a 2027 reference date.
- GDP methodology is debated.
- Consumption surveys resumed in 2022-23 after a gap.
- CPI weights are being updated.
- The IIP tracks monthly factory output.
- NFHS provides district health data.
- Administrative data offer real-time signals.
- Trust requires independence and transparency.
- District data help target policy.
The timely survey
A new monthly jobs survey shows rising youth unemployment in a state early, letting the government respond with training programmes months sooner.
Thinking data are a technical side issue
Data shape policy, funding and public trust.
Key takeaways
- Regular surveys and updated base years are priorities.
- Independence and open data build trust.
- Technology can improve data collection.
- Good data underpin good policy.
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