NSSO Hosts Data User Conference on Household Consumption Expenditure Survey 2022-23

New Delhi: The National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), held the Data User Conference on the Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) 2022-23 today in New Delhi. The event brought together distinguished guests and a diverse array of participants to explore the insights and applications of the survey, aiming to enhance MoSPI’s interaction with data users and stakeholders, fostering valuable feedback and collaboration.

Approximately 177 participants from various central ministries and departments, international organizations, and academic institutions attended the conference, contributing to vibrant discussions. Additionally, around 211 participants joined the conference virtually via YouTube, reflecting the widespread interest in the survey’s findings and implications.

Dr. Bibek Debroy, an eminent economist, served as the Chief Guest of the conference. Prof. Rajeeva Laxman Karandikar, Chairman of the National Statistical Commission (NSC), and Dr. Saurabh Garg, Secretary of MoSPI, also graced the occasion. Esteemed members from the NSC, the Steering Committee of the National Sample Survey, the Standing Committee on Statistics (SCoS), and former Chief Statistician of India & Secretary, MoSPI, attended the event. Representatives from various institutions and international organizations were also present.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Saurabh Garg emphasized the pivotal role of the conference in leveraging data for informed policymaking and societal progress. He highlighted the importance of collaboration among diverse stakeholders to harness data-driven policies that foster inclusive growth.

Prof. Rajeeva Laxman Karandikar, in his address, reflected on the significance of the HCES in understanding household consumption patterns and socio-economic dynamics. He advocated for evidence-based decision-making to address issues such as poverty, inequality, and sustainable development. Prof. Karandikar also stressed the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing in amplifying the impact of data-driven efforts, encouraging active participation from international organizations and the media.

Dr. Bibek Debroy, delivering the inaugural address, underscored the impact of data in shaping the collective future. He acknowledged the collaborative efforts in conducting the HCES and highlighted the release of a detailed report on June 7, 2024. This report provides comprehensive estimates of household consumption expenditure at both state and all-India levels. Dr. Debroy stressed the importance of leveraging HCES data for targeted interventions and efficient resource allocation, underscoring the potential of data to drive meaningful change.