Government Considers New Population Census Post Lok Sabha Elections, Aiding Economic Data Enhancements: Report
Sources informed Bloomberg that the central government is possibly contemplating a fresh population census post Lok Sabha Elections and deliberating on methods to enhance the accuracy of its economic data.
The previous census took place in 2011, and the subsequent one was scheduled for 2021. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it was reportedly postponed.
Significantly, in the interim Budget for 2024-25, the government earmarked ₹1,277.80 crore for the census, marking a substantial decrease from the ₹3,768 crore allocated in 2021-22. This was perceived as a potential indication that the census might not proceed despite the three-year delay.
However, sources cited by Bloomberg mentioned, “The government is contemplating a fresh population census following the conclusion of elections.” As per the report released on Thursday, the census could entail the training and deployment of more than 3,00,000 government personnel. “The survey process is expected to span approximately 12 months,” stated a source.
Further information from sources revealed that the Statistics Ministry put forward several proposals to enhance the accuracy of its economic data, which were deliberated upon by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s office in the previous month.
Sources indicated that these proposals encompassed “reinstating the survey of businesses, which was last published in 2014, and issuing the household consumption survey annually.” Additionally, they mentioned plans to implement a consistent base year for essential indicators and revise the basket of goods used to compute inflation.
Bloomberg reported that India’s Statistics Ministry and the Prime Minister’s Office did not provide additional information despite requests.
As per the report, the business survey aims to provide officials with a deeper insight into the economy’s transition from agriculture to other sectors. “The survey is anticipated to assist the government in refining its policies to promote manufacturing…,” it elaborated.
Sources indicated that the government intends to establish an advisory panel tasked with providing recommendations to the Statistics Ministry “concerning adjustments to the base year in crucial economic data and the revision of category weights.” “These plans are slated to be implemented following the elections scheduled for May,” they elaborated.
At the same time, there is a possibility of revising the consumer price basket to mirror shifts in consumer spending patterns in India.
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