National Statistics Office Organizes 18th National Seminar on Latest Survey Findings
As a leading organization in the field of statistics, the National Statistics Office (NSO), Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation (MoSPI), recently organized the 18th National Seminar on National Sample Surveys: “Critical Insights through Research and Emerging Trends in latest Survey Findings”. Organized under the banner of the Ministry’s commitment to transparency, timeliness, and innovation, this seminar took place at Goa University Panaji, Goa, from April 8th to 9th, 2025.
Overview
The seminar was a significant event for researchers, policymakers, and industry professionals. It focused on key survey findings from rounds 78, 79, and the AYUSH and Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES). The event featured a prestigious welcome address delivered by the Director General (CQCD), an Inaugural Address by the Chief Statistician, introductions by the Vice Chancellor, and cultural performances including Bharatnatyam dance and Goan folk dance.
Key Topics Discussed
The seminar delved into emerging trends in survey research, including:
- ICT skill disparities: Insights from studies on technological integration.
- Financial inclusion: Data-driven approaches to address financial challenges.
- Youth digital literacy: Strategies for engaging youth in data collection and analysis.
- Household consumption patterns: Economic indicators from HCES.
- Prediction of NSS estimates using Machine Learning Approach: Advanced analytics in policymaking.
- Multidimensional Poverty: Analysis using Neural Networks.
- AYUSH healthcare usage: Insights on public health initiatives.
- Contract labour trends: Statistics on workforce movements.
- Informal sector productivity: Data on agricultural and industrial activities.
Collaborative Efforts
The seminar underscored the role of academic institutions, governments, and private sectors in advancing research. Goa University, as the first institution in India to implement the National Education Policy (NEP), played a pivotal role in integrating NSS data into curricula. This initiative aimed to enhance statistical literacy among students and researchers.
Closing Remarks
Shri Pravin Srivastava, former Secretary and Chief Statistician of India, provided closing remarks. He emphasized collaboration between official statisticians and critics, highlighting the importance of seamless integration of data for informed decision-making. The Statistics Department of MoSPI introduced a new curriculum to incorporate NSS data, boosting statistical standards. Innovations like AI and CAPI were highlighted as tools to improve data quality and reduce respondent burden.
Call to Action
The seminar concluded with a collective commitment to fostering dialogue between data producers and users. It called for increased collaboration, improved data responsiveness, and promotion of evidence-based governance across sectors. Goa University and the National Education Policy (NEP) are urging researchers, policymakers, and industry partners to embrace these advancements.
What’s Next?
For more details on survey reports or upcoming initiatives, visit MoSPI’s official website at www.mospi.gov.in. For an engaging video presentation, follow MoSPI on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GoIStats.
This seminar not only highlighted the importance of survey research but also emphasized the role of statistics in shaping tomorrow’s policies and decisions.