India Ministry of Statistics seeks feedback on labor force survey changes

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation has invited suggestions from policymakers, research institutions, and the public regarding proposed changes to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) schedule and estimation processes.

The National Statistical Office (NSO), which has conducted the PLFS since 2017, aims to improve sample designs to enable monthly, quarterly, and annual estimates, as well as sub-state level indicators. Following observations that the current system did not sufficiently capture digital platform workers, a new second-tier level focused on gig economy labor is being introduced.

The NSO proposes to implement revisions to the PLFS sample design starting in January 2027. Stakeholders have 15 days from the publication of the press note to submit their comments on the proposed modifications.