The Union Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has dissolved the 14-member Standing Committee on Statistics (SCoS), formerly chaired by renowned economist Pronab Sen.

• The dissolution was due to overlapping responsibilities with the newly formed Steering Committee for the National Sample Surveys.
• Dr. Sen has said that the SCoS members had questioned the delay in conducting the census, as censuses have long been a crucial source of reliable data for policymakers.

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Background of Standing Committee on Statistics (SCoS)

• Creation of SCES: The Standing Committee on Economic Statistics (SCES) was formed by MoSPI in 2019 to recommend improvements in economic data and surveys in India. 
• Renaming of SCES to SCoS: Later, it was reviewed and renamed the Standing Committee on Statistics (SCoS).
• Key Responsibilities of SCES: The SCoS advised the Centre on survey methodology, including sampling frames, sampling design, survey instruments, questions, etc. 
  • It also played a vital role in finalising the tabulation plan of surveys, reviewing the extant framework, and addressing the issues raised from time to time on the subjects, results, methodology, etc. related to all surveys.
  • It was tasked with advising the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) on all national surveys to ensure data quality and reliability.
  • It reviews all surveys conducted under the National Statistical Office (NSO).

Reasons for the Dismantling of the Standing Committee on Statistics (SCoS)

• Correction of Past Errors: The decision aims to rectify an “error” where a separate panel was established for surveys instead of having the national statistics panel to oversee the work.
• Role Overlap and Confusion:
  • The existence of both the National Statistics Commission (NSC) and the SCoS for overseeing National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) surveys was causing confusion.
  • The new Steering Committee will work under the National Statistical Commission NSC’s leadership to streamline the process.
    • The NSC was constituted on 12th July 2006 to serve as a nodal and empowered body for all core statistical activities of the country and to evolve, monitor and enforce statistical priorities and standards and ensure statistical coordination.
• Simplification of Oversight: It is deemed more appropriate for the NSC chairman to lead the new Steering Committee on Statistics, as it aligns with the NSC’s role in governing NSSO surveys.

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About New Steering Committee

• About: The Steering Committee replaces the SCoS. The new committee is headed by the National Statistical Commission (NSC) Chairman and four members of the dissolved SCoS have been included in it.
• Composition: 17 members and one non-member secretary.
• Tenure: Tenure of two years.
• Terms of Reference: Review of subject results, methodology, questionnaires, sampling frames, sampling design, concepts, definitions, and survey instruments related to National Sample Surveys.
  • Guidance on survey methodology and finalisation of tabulation plans.
• Differences from SCoS:
  • More official members compared to the SCoS, which had several non-official members.
  • Addressing overlap in mandates between the two committees.

Advantages of the newly constituted Steering Committee

• Streamlined Focus: The Steering Committee is designed to enhance efficiency by concentrating on operational aspects of national sample surveys.
• Enhanced Composition: With more official members compared to the SCoS, the Steering Committee is likely to align better with government policies and ensure consistency.
• Expertise Retention: Retaining key members from the SCoS ensures continuity and maintains valuable expertise.
• Focused Advisory Role: While similar to the SCoS in advising on methodologies and designs, the Steering Committee’s more focused mandate is expected to lead to improved outcomes.

Reasons For Pressure regarding Conducting a New Census

• Lack of fresh data: Relying on 2011 census data for over 13 years is seen as detrimental to accurate decision-making.
• Reliability Issues in existing Surveys: Existing surveys, such as the Periodic Labour Force Surveys, face criticism for reliability and comprehensiveness. 
• Details Data from Updated Census: An updated census would provide detailed State and sub-district data on key issues such as education and employment.
• Flaws in Administrative Data: Administrative data often lacks the depth of analytical rigour needed for accurate assessments.
  • Advantages of Survey-Based Data as compared to Administrative Data:
    • Universal Coverage: Surveys, such as the census, provide comprehensive data without thresholds, offering a broader and more inclusive view.
    • Detailed Regional Data: The census can deliver detailed State, district, and sub-district level data, which surveys like the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) may not provide.
    • Addressing Urban Bias: Unlike some surveys, the census can offer a balanced perspective without urban bias.

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Implications of the Census Delay

• Impact on Welfare Schemes: Outdated data affects the accurate identification of beneficiaries for programs like the National Food Security Act (NFSA). 
  • For instance, while the 2011 Census data indicated a population of 121 crore and 80 crore PDS beneficiaries, estimates suggest a population of 141 crore, which would increase PDS coverage to about 97 crore people.
• Finance Allocation: The Finance Commission relies on Census data for state fund allocation. Outdated data could lead to disproportionate financial distributions among states.
• Impact on Sample Surveys: Sample surveys, such as the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), use Census data as a reference, making current data crucial for accurate results.
• Constituency Demarcation: Census data is used to demarcate constituencies and allocate parliamentary and assembly seats. Delays mean using outdated data, potentially misrepresenting population changes over the past decade.
• Reservation and Delimitation: Delays affect the delimitation of seats and reservation quotas for SC/STs and women, leading to possible imbalances in representation.
• Understanding Migration Patterns: The Census provides vital information on migration and its economic impact. Delays hinder the availability of current data for policy-making, particularly highlighted during the COVID-19 lockdowns, when targeting stranded migrant workers was challenging.
• Impact on Planning and Decisions: Timely Census data is essential for identifying trends, assessing needs, and making informed decisions. Delays result in missed opportunities for targeted interventions and strategic planning.

Possible Call of Action

• Expedite the Next Census: Develop a clear roadmap and timeline to conduct the next census promptly, minimising further delays.
• Ensure Comprehensive Data Coverage: Update and verify data collection processes to include all demographic, economic, and social parameters accurately.
• Improve Coordination: Enhance coordination between relevant ministries and agencies to streamline census operations and address any administrative hurdles effectively.
• Streamline Survey Frameworks: Align survey methodologies and frameworks to prevent the creation of parallel or overlapping surveys, ensuring consistent and comprehensive data collection.
• Address Criticism Constructively: Implement measures to view feedback and criticism as opportunities for improvement rather than reasons for dismantling or discontinuing initiatives. This approach fosters a more open and constructive environment within government organisations.

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