New Delhi, April 21 -- There has been a persistent narrative about the decline of the Indian statistical system. This is despite the fact that the National Statistical Organisation has introduced new sample surveys and increased the periodicity of older ones. Similar developments have occurred in major partner ministries such as labour, education and health. In addition, the availability and accessibility of statistical data have improved significantly over the last decade.

Several factors feed perceptions of decline.

First and foremost, the demand for data and data-driven dialogue has increased rapidly, while the supply of timely statistical data has not kept pace.

Second, government agencies have, at times, idiosyncratically delayed ...