National Statistical Commission

Context: The Union Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation has quietly dissolved the 14-member Standing Committee on Statistics (SCoS) headed by eminent economist and former chief statistician of the country Pronab Sen, allegedly after its members questioned the delay in conducting the census.

National Statistical Commission (NSC) :

Establishment:

• The NSC was created in 2006 based on the Rangarajan Commission’s 2001 recommendations, aiming to reform the Indian statistical system for more reliable and timely data. It has not yet been given statutory status.  

Objective:

• The NSC was set up to reduce government influence on data generation and ensure unbiased, objective statistics. It also promotes transparency in collecting and sharing official data.

Composition:

• The NSC has a part-time Chairman (with Minister of State rank), four part-time Members (equivalent to Government Secretary rank), and one Ex officio member 

Functions:

• Policy Formulation: Advises the government on statistical methods and priorities.
• Coordination: Ensures standardization across central and state statistical agencies.
• Monitoring: Reviews the performance of statistical agencies and improves data quality.
• Capacity Building: Strengthens statistical expertise through training and research.
• Importance:
  The NSC ensures the integrity of statistical data, vital for policy-making, economic planning, and evaluating programs. It also helps address concerns about data accuracy in areas like GDP growth, unemployment, and inflation.