2025 - 75 Years of National Sample Survey | Commemorative Coin

The 14th commemorative coin of 2025 was released to mark the 75 Years of National Sample Survey while commemorating the 19th Statistics Day.

The National Sample Survey (NSS) is one of India’s most significant and enduring initiatives in the field of socio-economic data collection and analysis. Launched in 1950 by the Government of India under the guidance of Professor P.C. Mahalanobis, the NSS was established to provide reliable and comprehensive statistics for planning and policy-making. It functions under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), with its operational arm being the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), now reorganized as part of the National Statistical Office (NSO).

The primary objective of the National Sample Survey is to collect data on various facets of India’s economy and society, including consumption expenditure, employment and unemployment, health, education, housing, social welfare, and other key sectors. Through meticulously designed sample surveys conducted on a regular basis across the country, the NSS enables the government and researchers to understand ground realities, track trends, and formulate data-driven policies. These surveys cover both urban and rural areas and are carefully sampled to ensure national and state-level representation.

The NSS operates through a series of rounds, each lasting for a specific period, usually one year. Each round focuses on specific themes or sectors, and the data collected is subjected to rigorous statistical scrutiny and analysis. The findings of these surveys are published in detailed reports, which serve as critical tools for government agencies, scholars, and development professionals. One of the most influential surveys conducted by the NSS has been the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS), which provides timely estimates on key employment and unemployment indicators. Another important domain includes the Household Consumer Expenditure Survey, which plays a vital role in understanding poverty levels and the standard of living of various sections of society.

Over the decades, the National Sample Survey has evolved in terms of its scope, methodology, and technology. From paper-based enumeration to the use of computer-assisted personal interviewing (CAPI), the system has continually adapted to changing times and demands for greater accuracy and speed. The reliability and depth of NSS data have made it an essential part of India’s statistical infrastructure and a model for other developing nations.

In essence, the National Sample Survey represents a cornerstone of India’s democratic and developmental framework. It ensures that policy-making is anchored in evidence and that the voices of people across the socio-economic spectrum are reflected in national discourse. Through its tireless efforts, the NSS continues to play a vital role in documenting the dynamic changes of India’s society and economy.

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