What Steps is the Govt Taking for the 2026 Household Income Survey?
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Synopsis
In an effort to enhance the accuracy of income data collection, the MoSPI has formed a Technical Expert Group under Dr. Surjit S. Bhalla's leadership, aimed at guiding a nationwide income distribution survey in 2026. This initiative seeks to implement best practices and address past challenges in data collection.
Key Takeaways
- The MoSPI has created a Technical Expert Group to aid in an all-India income survey.
- Dr. Surjit S. Bhalla chairs the group, which includes various esteemed experts.
- The survey is scheduled for 2026 and aims to enhance data reliability.
- Global practices will be utilized to inform the survey's methodologies.
- The TEG will address previous challenges in data collection.
New Delhi, June 23 (NationPress) The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has established a Technical Expert Group (TEG) led by Dr. Surjit S. Bhalla, a former Executive Director at the International Monetary Fund, to assist the National Statistics Office in conducting a comprehensive income distribution survey across India, tentatively set for 2026, as stated in an official announcement on Monday.
This Expert Group will offer strategic advice on finalizing concepts and definitions, developing survey methodologies and instruments, designing sampling techniques, and applying global best practices. Additionally, the survey aims to evaluate the impact of technology adoption on household income, particularly wages. The TEG will also oversee the finalization of survey results and their subsequent release, according to the statement.
The TEG comprises not only the Chairman and several officials from MoSPI and various Central Ministries and Departments but also includes distinguished members such as Aloke Kar, former Professor at the Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata, Prof. Sonalde Desai from the National Council of Applied Economic Research, New Delhi, Prof. Praveen Jha from JNU’s Centre for Economic Studies and Planning, Prof. Srijit Mishra from the University of Hyderabad’s School of Economics, Dr. Tirthankar Patnaik, Chief Economist at the National Stock Exchange of India, Dr. Rajesh Shukla, Managing Director & CEO of People Research on India’s Consumer Economy, and Prof. Ram Singh, Director of the Delhi School of Economics.
The TEG may engage subject matter experts, both within and outside the government, as members as needed, subject to approval from the relevant authorities. It may also invite specialists to meetings as special guests to address specific needs, as per the statement.
The formation of this expert group stems from previous challenges faced by MoSPI in collecting reliable income data in the field. The TEG is expected to resolve these issues, clarify survey processes, and supervise the overall Household Income Survey, drawing insights from experiences in countries like Australia, the USA, Canada, and South Africa, the statement concluded.
Point of View
This initiative by MoSPI reflects a commitment to enhancing data accuracy and transparency in income distribution. With the involvement of renowned experts, the survey is anticipated to yield valuable insights that can inform policy decisions and improve economic strategies across India.
NationPress
23/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Technical Expert Group?
The TEG is established to guide the National Statistics Office in conducting a comprehensive income distribution survey in India, focusing on methodology and the collection of reliable data.
Who is leading the Technical Expert Group?
The TEG is chaired by Dr. Surjit S. Bhalla, a former Executive Director at the International Monetary Fund.
When is the income distribution survey scheduled?
The survey is tentatively scheduled for 2026.
What challenges did MoSPI face in previous surveys?
MoSPI encountered difficulties in collecting reliable income data during past surveys, which the TEG aims to address.
Which countries' practices will be considered in the survey?
The TEG will incorporate best practices from countries such as Australia, the USA, Canada, and South Africa.
