India's Data Collectors Warn of 'Acute Stagnation' Amid Evidence-Driven Policy Push
At a critical juncture when the Indian government is intensifying its focus on evidence-based policymaking, the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has been alerted to severe stagnation among the officers responsible for ground-level data collection. The All India Association of Statistical Officers (AIASO) recently highlighted in a letter that systemic bottlenecks are eroding morale and efficiency within the Subordinate Statistical Service (SSS).
High Attrition and Stalled Promotions Undermine Morale
The SSS, comprising Junior Statistical Officers (JSOs) and Senior Statistical Officers (SSOs), faces an alarming attrition rate of 44% for JSOs, coupled with promotions that occur only once in a decade. This has led to a demotivated cadre, with many officers retiring without advancement despite nearly 30 years of service. The AIASO emphasized that these issues are not new but have persisted, adversely affecting the quality of data used for government decisions.
Increased Workload Amidst Manpower Shortages
As MoSPI ramps up surveys like the Periodic Labour Force Survey and the upcoming Household Income Survey, the workload on statistical officers has surged significantly. However, vacancies plague the system, with over 500 JSO and SSO positions—approximately 12% of the sanctioned strength—remaining unfilled. The Standing Committee on Finance has noted that this manpower shortage, persisting for a prolonged period, compromises data quality and work-life balance for officers.
Impact on Data Quality and Policy Implications
The combination of high attrition, poor career progression, and increased workload raises concerns about the reliability of key economic indicators such as GDP and CPI. MoSPI is undertaking reforms, including updating data series and using tablets for faster surveys, but the human resource crisis threatens these efforts. Contract staff, numbering around 5,500 and set to double, often face pressure to complete tasks quickly, potentially leading to data adjustments and inaccuracies.
Call for Immediate Redressal
In meetings with MoSPI officials, AIASO representatives have urged action to address these long-standing issues. Without timely interventions, the stagnation could hinder India's ability to produce robust data, essential for informed policymaking and economic planning.
