Context: The Culmination Ceremony of the 75th Anniversary of the National Sample Survey (NSS), along with the observance of World Statistics Day, was recently held in Udaipur, Rajasthan.
The event was organised by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), marking the close of a year-long commemoration of India’s statistical system.
Key Highlights of the Ceremony
1. Release of NIC 2025
MoSPI unveiled the National Industrial Classification (NIC) 2025, an updated statistical standard used for classifying economic activities across industries.
It ensures harmonisation with emerging sectors, digital industries, and global classification systems.
2. Launch of the Data Innovation Lab Portal
A new Data Innovation Lab Portal was launched to:
- Promote innovation in official statistics,
- Enable applications of AI, machine learning (ML) and advanced analytics,
- Improve data-driven policy design.
3. Thematic Sessions
Expert sessions focused on:
- Strengthening field communication strategies,
- Demonstrating the new Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI) system,
- Enhancing data quality, timeliness, and transparency.
About the National Sample Survey (NSS)
Origins and Evolution
- The NSS was established in 1950 following the recommendations of the National Income Committee (1949) chaired by Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis — regarded as the “Father of Modern Statistics in India.”
- Over the decades, the NSS has become India’s largest socio-economic survey system, generating nationally representative datasets.
Institutional Changes
- In 2019, the NSSO (National Sample Survey Office) and the CSO (Central Statistical Office) were merged to form the National Statistical Office (NSO) under MoSPI.
- After reorganisation, NSS functions as a survey division within the NSO, continuing its mandate of large-scale household surveys.
Core Mandate
The NSS provides high-quality data for:
- Evidence-based policymaking,
- Poverty estimation, consumption and labour statistics,
- Social, demographic, health and sector-specific studies.
Digital Transition
Major technological upgrades include:
- CAPI (Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing),
- e-SIGMA platform for real-time monitoring and validation.
These tools enhance accuracy, minimise manual errors, and improve efficiency of national surveys.
About World Statistics Day
- Celebrated every five years on 20 October, recognising the importance of reliable and timely statistics for informed global decision-making.
- The UN General Assembly designated it formally in 2010.
- Theme 2025: “Driving Change with Quality Statistics and Data for Everyone.”
Conclusion
The 75th anniversary celebrations underscore India’s leadership in building a robust, evolving statistical ecosystem.
The release of NIC 2025, technological upgrades, and innovation-driven platforms reaffirm MoSPI’s commitment to modern, transparent, and high-quality statistics, essential for governance, development planning, and national progress.