India’s First Comprehensive Household Income Survey

India’s First Comprehensive Household Income Survey – To Be Conducted in 2026

Source: Economic Times
Category: Economy | Government Schemes | Data & Statistics

Why In News:

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has announced that India will conduct its first nationwide Household Income Survey in 2026 to collect accurate data on income distribution.

What is the Household Income Survey?

A nationwide survey focused solely on measuring household income levels and distribution.
Aims to provide reliable and detailed income data for policymaking and economic planning.

Ministries and Bodies Involved:

Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI)
National Sample Survey (NSS)
Technical Expert Group (TEG) headed by Dr. Surjit S. Bhalla

Background & Past Attempts:

1950: NSS began household surveys in India.
1955–1970: Experimental surveys (NSS 9th, 14th, 19th, 24th rounds) attempted income measurement, but faced underreporting issues.
1983–84: Another pilot failed to scale due to data quality concerns.
Past income estimates were lower than actual consumption and savings, making surveys unreliable.

Features of the 2026 Survey:

First full-scale national survey on household income.
Guided by TEG to align with international best practices.
Focus areas:
- Conceptual clarity and accurate sampling
- Use of digital tools to enhance data collection
- Inclusion of technology’s impact on wages and earnings
Builds on MoSPI’s recent work in:
- Unincorporated sector
- Services sector
- Private capital expenditure
- Tourism statistics

Significance:

Fills a critical data gap in understanding income inequality and distribution in India.
Enables evidence-based policymaking for welfare and inclusive growth.
Strengthens India’s statistical system to meet global standards.
Supports targeted fiscal planning and better economic governance.

Prelims Power Shots:

Which ministry is conducting the Household Income Survey? → MoSPI
Who is heading the Technical Expert Group? → Dr. Surjit S. Bhalla
When will the survey be conducted? → 2026
Past attempts by NSS failed due to? → Underreporting and mismatch with consumption data