• UGI USER
  • Sep 13, 2024
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Dissolution of SCoS and Urgent Need for Census

Why in the news?

The Standing Committee on Statistics (SCoS) was dissolved, raising concerns over delays in the 2021 census, which is crucial for accurate policymaking and reliable data collection.

About the SCoS Dissolved:

  • The Union Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation dissolved the 14-member SCoS, citing overlap with the new Steering Committee for National Sample Surveys.
  • Headed by economist Pronab Sen, the SCoS advised on survey methodologies and tabulation plans.
  • Its members questioned delays in conducting the census, crucial for policymaking and reliable data.

New Steering Committee:

  • The new Steering Committee has 17 members, including four former SCoS members, with a two-year tenure.
  • It advises on survey methodologies, similar to the SCoS, but has more official members
  • Key roles include reviewing sampling designs, concepts, and survey instruments.

 

Census Delay Concerns:

  •  The 2021 census was delayed due to COVID-19, and there’s no roadmap for the next one, affecting data reliability.
  • Policymakers stress the urgency of conducting the census, as relying on 2011 data hampers decision-making.
  • Census data is crucial for state and sub-district information, influencing programs like the National Food Security Act.

About Formation and Purpose of the Standing Committee on Statistics (SCoS):

  • Established in July 2023 to advise on survey methodologies, including sampling and tabulation.
  • Consisted of 14 members, led by economist Pronab Sen.
  • Aimed : to enhance data collection and analysis across national surveys. 

Census Delay and Panel Dissolution:

  • India’s 2021 Census was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with no official reschedule.
  • The SCoS raised concerns about the census delay in its meetings.

Steering Committee for National Sample Surveys:

  • Chaired by Rajeeva Laxman Karandikar.
  • Focuses on standardising survey processes, replacing some SCoS functions. Several SCoS members were retained.

About Census:

  • Provides data on population size, distribution, socio-economic, and demographic characteristics.
  • Originated from Mughal administrative reports like ‘Ain-e-Akbari’ detailing population and wealth.
  • Systematic population censuses began between 1865-1872, with the first synchronised census in
  • Conducted every ten years by the Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner, Ministry of Home Affairs.

National Statistical Commission (NSC): 

  • Established on 12th July 2006.
  • Formed to set policies and standards in statistical matters, following the Rangarajan Commission’s recommendations.
  • Comprises a part-time Chairperson, four part-time members, and an ex-officio member.
  • The Chief Statistician of India is the Secretary 

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times