In a major statistical initiative, the National Statistical Office (NSO) will launch a nationwide Household Income Survey starting February 2026, according to an announcement by the Union Minister of Statistics. This marks a significant step towards gathering reliable data on income distribution, economic disparities, and household earnings across India.
Why the Survey Matters
While India has robust data on household consumption and expenditure, there has long been a gap in comprehensive income data. The new survey aims to:
- Provide accurate information on sources of household income (salaries, agriculture, business, remittances, etc.)
- Enable better policymaking for welfare schemes, subsidies, and tax planning.
- Help assess economic inequality and track progress towards inclusive growth.
Key Features of the Survey
- Nationwide Coverage: Urban and rural households across all states and UTs.
- Frequency: The survey will be conducted annually, beginning February 2026.
- Data Points: It will include primary income, secondary income, and social transfers like pensions and subsidies.
- Integration: The data will complement existing surveys on consumption, employment, and poverty.
Government’s Vision
The Statistics Minister emphasized that this move aligns with global standards in income measurement and will significantly enhance India’s economic data framework. It is also expected to improve transparency and trust in official statistics.
Way Forward
Experts believe that the Household Income Survey will help address critical questions on income disparity, middle-class growth, and impact assessment of welfare programs. Once implemented, it could become a key reference for economists, policymakers, and international organizations.
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