Dissolution of Standing Committee on Statistics (SCoS)

Source: The post dissolution of Standing Committee on Statistics (SCoS) has been created, based on the article “What does dissolution of SCoS entail?” published in “The Hindu” on 13th August 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3- Indian Economy and issues relating to planning

Context: The article discusses the government’s dissolution of the 14-member Standing Committee on Statistics (SCoS) due to overlapping responsibilities with another committee. It highlights the urgency of conducting the delayed census and the limitations of using administrative data for policymaking.

For detailed information on Standing Committee on Statistics (SCoS) read this article here

Why was the Standing Committee on Statistics (SCoS) dissolved?

1. Overlapping roles: The Standing Committee on Statistics (SCoS) was dissolved due to its overlapping role with the Steering Committee for National Sample Surveys.
2. Explanation from Geeta Singh Rathore: Geeta Singh Rathore, Director-General of the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), explained the duplication of responsibilities as the reason for dismantling SCoS.
3. Similar Functions by Steering Committee: The Steering Committee, led by Rajeeva Laxman Karandikar, already handled similar tasks, such as reviewing survey methodologies and tabulating data.
4. Pronab Sen’s statement: Dr. Pronab Sen former head of SCoS, stated members were not given a clear explanation for the dissolution.
5. Concerns over the census: Members had also raised concerns over the delay in conducting the national census, a key data source for policymakers.

What were the key responsibilities of the SCoS?

1. The SCoS advised the government on survey methodologies such as sampling designs and survey instruments.
2. It played a role in finalizing tabulation plans for surveys and addressing issues related to survey results and methodology.
3. It also guided pilot surveys, identified data gaps, and provided technical support to agencies at central and state levels for conducting surveys.

What is the role of the new Steering Committee?

1. The new Steering Committee has 17 members and one non-member secretary.
2. Its main role is to advise the government on survey methodology, including sampling designs and survey instruments.
3. It will review the results, methodologies, and sampling frameworks of all National Sample Surveys.
4. The Committee also finalizes the tabulation plans for surveys, ensuring accurate data.

Why is there pressure to conduct a new census?

1. Lack of Updated Data: The last census was conducted in 2011, and the delay in the 2021 census due to COVID-19 has left policymakers relying on outdated data.
2. Impact on Schemes: Absence of fresh census data affects schemes like the National Food Security Act, leaving millions without necessary benefits.
3. Employment Data Concerns: Opposition and policymakers have questioned the accuracy of employment and unemployment data.
4. Comprehensive Data Needs: Census data provides state and sub-district level information on education and employment, which surveys like PLFS cannot cover.

What are the flaws in administrative data?

1. Administrative data, such as those from EPFO and ESIC, often reflect government intentions and have threshold-based limitations, especially in labor statistics.
2. This data can be manipulated, lacks analytical depth, and doesn’t offer a full picture. In contrast, census data has universal coverage and provides more accurate and extensive information.

Question for practice:

Examine the reasons behind the dissolution of the Standing Committee on Statistics (SCoS) and its impact on the government’s approach to data collection.