Why in the News?

The Union Ministry dissolved the Standing Committee on Statistics (SCoS) headed by eminent economist and former chief statistician of the country Pronab Sen citing overlapping roles with the Steering Committee.

Why was the SCoS dissolved?

• Overlapping Responsibilities: The primary reason cited for the dissolution of the SCoS was that its functions overlapped with those of the newly formed Steering Committee for National Sample Surveys.
• Concerns Raised by Members: Members of the SCoS had consistently questioned the delay in conducting the census, which has been a critical source of data for policymakers.
• Lack of Communication: Dr. Pronab Sen, the chair of the SCoS, noted that members were not provided with a specific reason for the committee’s dissolution, which raised concerns about transparency in the decision-making process.

What are the main roles of the new Steering Committee?

• Advisory Role: The Steering Committee will advise the Ministry on survey methodologies, including aspects like sampling frames, design, and survey instruments, similar to the SCoS.
• Finalizing Tabulation Plans: This will play a crucial role in finalizing the tabulation plans for various national sample surveys, ensuring that the data collected is organized and presented effectively.
• Reviewing Methodologies: The committee will review subject results, methodologies, and questionnaires related to national sample surveys, maintaining the continuity of statistical rigor established by the SCoS.
• Tenure and Composition: The Steering Committee consists of 17 members, including at least four members retained from the SCoS, and will serve a tenure of two years.

How do the SCoS and the Steering Committee differ?

• Composition: The Steering Committee has a higher number of official members compared to the SCoS, which includes several non-official members. This shift may influence the dynamics and perspectives within the committee.
• Mandate Overlap: While both committees have similar mandates regarding survey methodologies and data collection, the Steering Committee is positioned to focus more on the operational aspects of national sample surveys, potentially leading to a more streamlined approach.
• Response to Criticism: The formation of the Steering Committee appears to be a response to criticisms of the statistical system in India, aiming to address survey-related issues more effectively than the SCoS could.

How does the SCoS’s dissolution impact statistical data quality?

• Delay in Census Data: The dissolution of the SCoS amid ongoing delays in conducting the census raises concerns about the availability of reliable and updated data. The last census was conducted in 2011, and reliance on outdated data can negatively affect policy-making and the distribution of welfare benefits.
• Quality of Administrative Data: Critics argue that administrative data, which the government has been relying on, may not accurately reflect the employment scenario, as it is often threshold-based and susceptible to manipulation. This could lead to a distorted view of the economic situation.
• Need for Comprehensive Data: The census is crucial for providing comprehensive demographic, economic, and social data, which is essential for effective policy formulation. The absence of updated census data can hinder the government’s ability to address issues like employment, poverty, and social welfare effectively.

Way forward: 

• Reinstate Independent Oversight: Establish an independent statistical body with clear roles to ensure transparency, timely data collection, and oversight of key surveys like the census, addressing concerns of data reliability.
• Modernize Data Collection: Leverage technology to streamline and accelerate the census and national surveys, ensuring that updated and accurate data is available for policy-making and welfare distribution.

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