Why in News? 

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) will carry out the first-ever Household Income Survey in 2026. To support this initiative, a Technical Expert Group (TEG) will be established to advise the ministry on estimation methods and other key aspects of the survey. 

About First Ever Household Income Survey 

Purpose: A nationwide survey to collect accurate and reliable data on household income distribution across India for the first time. 

Organisations Involved 

• Conducted by: Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) 
• Implemented through: National Sample Survey (NSS) 
• Guided by: Technical Expert Group (TEG) headed by Dr. Surjit S. Bhalla 

Background of Past Attempts 

• 1950: NSS started large-scale surveys. 
• 1955–1970: Income data collected during NSS Rounds 9, 14, 19 and 24 but suffered from underreporting. 
• 1983–84: A pilot survey on household income was done but couldn’t be scaled.
  

Features of the 2026 Survey 

• First dedicated national survey focused only on household income. 
• Global best practices to be applied under TEG supervision. 
• Emphasis on concept clarity, sampling design and estimation methods. 
• Digital tools to ensure accuracy and assess the impact of technology on wages and income. 
• Builds upon MoSPI’s latest statistical efforts in unincorporated sectors, services, private investment, and tourism.