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Applications of Business Register and NSO

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Applications of Business Register and NSO

Altaf Hussain Haji

The Economic Census (EC) is a huge countrywide exercise for generating data on all economic activities.  It is also called the Business Register.  The Economic Census is the complete count of all non-farm economic establishments and units located within the geographical boundary of a country. The units may be involved in any economic activity either related to non-farm agricultural or non-agricultural sectors of the economy engaged in production or distribution of goods and services but not for the sole purpose of own-consumption excluding non-farm agricultural crop production and plantation.

As we know that the Economic Census gives important data of the state of the economy, prospects and the policy challenges. The Economic Census serves the requirements that determine the magnitude and spread of the economic units at the disaggregated level at planning and prepare the update Business register. The Business register will be an economic sampling frame and master sample for follow-up enterprise surveys where advance information and missing information is not available or possible in the economic census. There are many other uses of the economic census in the planning and policy formulation.

Some of the uses of the economic census are as under:

  • To create and develop a map of economic activities and the spatial
    distributions
  • To find out detail information on the structure of economy i.e. disaggregated
    information on operational and structural variables of the establishments in
    the country.
  • To measure the diversity of non-farm economic activities in its major dimensions
  • To provide updates on units actually operative to concerned registering/licensing authorities, most of whom have no mechanism to live registers

In India, a fairly reasonable database exists for the Agriculture Sector whereas such data for the non-agricultural sector is not adequate. Keeping in mind the importance of the nonagricultural sector in the economy and the non-availability of the basic frame for adoption in various sampling techniques for collection of data and estimation of various parameters, the Economic Census was felt necessary.

The economic census in the country is a mandate of the National Statistical Office (NSO) under the Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation (MOSPI) government of India.  The NSO has the creation of a database for various sectors of the economy and its periodic updating so as to meet the requirements of the planners for sound and systematic planning both at the macro as well as micro-level.

 The origin and history of conducting Economic census in India started in 1976.   In 1976, the Government of India launched a planning scheme called “Economic Census and Surveys”. In 1977 Central Statistical Organization conducted a first economic census in collaboration with Directorate of Economics & Statistics [DES] in the States/Union Territories. Since the economic censuses of 1980 and 1990 were integrated with the house listing operations of the population census. The fourth Economic Census, fifth   Economic Census and sixth Economic Census were conducted 1998, 2005 and 2013 respectively.

All other economic censuses were conducted by the Directorates of Economics and Statistics of the states under the overall guidance and support of the Central Statistical Office (CSO).

The Seventh Economic Census data collection is under processes in Jammu and Kashmir. This census is different from all other six censuses in terms of collection of data and the use of technology with the aim to be paperless and bring out timely results in a short spell of time. The economic census also gives us employment data. The employment data is very important data sources for decision making.

It is to mention here that the task force made by the government of India and given various recommendations in its report during 2017 for improving employment data of Economic census.  The report also recommended that the Economic Census should be conducted every three years, beginning with the seventh economic census.

Jammu and Kashmir is also ready to collect the data on economic census through the Common Service Centers (CSCs) e-governance service India limited through the department of Science and Technology Jammu and Kashmir government under the supervision of the regional office of National Statistical Office (NSO), Field Operations Division, Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, Government of India.

The Jammu and Kashmir administration has already constituted state-level coordination committee for smooth conduct of seventh economic census with the terms of reference to monitor preparedness, progress and hurdles in the conduct of seventh economic census on regular basis and ensure complete coverage of the data canvassed through validation against existing data basses such as state business register. The work of 7th economic census is almost near compilation in Jammu and Kashmir and its provisional results will be available near future for policy-making purposes of various indicators of the non-agriculture sector including indicators for Sustainable development goals.

As you are aware that the Field Operations Division (FOD) of the National Statistical Office (NSO) is responsible for conducting of large scale sample surveys in diverse fields. The National Statistical Office (NSO), Field Operations Division has been entrusted with the work of training, monitoring and supervision in the Economic Census and has also been directed to develop appropriate implementation framework along with Common Service Centre (CSC). The main role of NSO during conducting of the seventh economic census was including to conduct the training of trainers for effective capacity building of field enumerators and supervisors engaged by CSC, top provides support and supervision in the training of enumerators and supervisors conducted by CSC at district and sub-district level, to effective coordination with State government and district administration to and facilitate CSC SPV for smooth conduct of fieldwork of Seventh economic census,  etc.

The supervision of NSO  for the seventh economic census is incumbent upon us to ensure quality aspect for the enumeration process.   As we know that Quality is a very important issue for quality data. Since the fourth goal of the agenda of sustainable development goals (SDG’s) is to ensure inclusive and equitable quality and promote opportunities for all with the targets to be achieved by 2030.  Keeping in mind the quality of the data. National Statistical Office (NSO) has an important role in the supervision of the collection of data.

On behalf of the Field Operations Division of NSO and an officer of Indian Statistical Service (ISS), it is a duty to aware that all stakeholder to come forward for helping to obtain quality data which is used for development and wellbeing of the nation. The reliable data, obtained with the cooperation of the respondent, will help the government in measuring the contribution of economic activities.  Thus, the role of the respondent in the survey operations of the FOD is crucial and will contribute towards improving the quality of information. The Government, therefore, appeals to you to extend your kind cooperation to spare some of your valuable time to provide the correct and complete information.  The information so provided by you will go a long way in helping the government to improve the lives of the public with concrete plans and policies based on hard facts.

Altaf Hussain Haji, ISS, is Deputy Director General at National Statistical Office, State Head HP, based in Shimla. He can be contacted on altafhh@rediffmail.com

                                                                                                   

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Economy

Editorial | J&K Budget 2025-26 – A Balancing Act

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J&K Budget 2025-26

Fiscal Constraints Amidst Development Aspirations

J&K Budget 2025-26

Preparing the maiden budget for Jammu and Kashmir as the head of an elected government of a state downgraded to a UT and remaining under central rule without an elected government for more than seven years with overwhelming challenges was an arduous task for Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.

While his speech paints a hopeful picture of a “new and prosperous” J&K, a closer look reveals a delicate balancing act necessitated by fiscal realities and the people’s aspirations: high hopes with vivid memories of recent election promises.

As Omar Abdullah seeks to lay the foundation for ‘long-term growth, stability, and self-reliance’ of J&K, he has to walk a tightrope to keep the state’s mounting debt under control. However, his prudent management to keep the fiscal deficit under leash has come at a cost: a leaner budget. This year’s budget allocation of Rs 1.12 lakh crore is Rs 6080 crore or 5% less than last year’s budget announcement of Rs 1.18 lakh crore. The reduction in budget allocation, along with 4-5% inflation, raises concerns about the government’s ability to realise its ambitious development goals fully.

The CM’s speech, though, outlines a comprehensive vision, touching upon crucial sectors like rural development, agriculture, tourism, and industry. But translating these aspirations into tangible outcomes requires substantial financial investment. Moreover, the pervasive challenge of inflation adds another layer of complexity. Rising prices erode purchasing power, making it harder to stretch limited budgetary resources.

As Omar Abdullah seeks to lay the foundation for ‘long-term growth, stability, and self-reliance’ of J&K, he has to walk a tightrope to keep the state’s mounting debt under control. However, his prudent management to keep the fiscal deficit under leash has come at a cost: a leaner budget. This year’s budget allocation of Rs 1.12 lakh crore is Rs 6080 crore or 5% less than last year’s budget announcement of Rs 1.18 lakh crore.

The emphasis on fiscal prudence, curbing non-priority spending, and enhancing revenue collection is understandable, given J&K’s historical fiscal stress. However, austerity measures must be carefully calibrated to avoid stifling economic growth and hindering essential public services, especially when inflation is already squeezing household budgets.

The budget’s focus on digital governance and healthcare accessibility is welcome. Initiatives like the SEHAT app and the expansion of digital services have the potential to improve efficiency and transparency. Yet, the question remains: are the allocated funds sufficient to ensure the effective implementation of these programs, particularly when the real cost of implementation is escalating due to inflation?

The agricultural sector, a cornerstone of J&K’s economy, receives significant attention. The success of the Holistic Agriculture Development Program (HADP) will be crucial in boosting farmer incomes and creating employment opportunities. The allocation to HADP has been reduced Rs 800 crore from last year’s 1000 crore plus. However, the program’s impact will depend on the timely disbursement of funds and effective implementation, and whether the farmers can see real increases in their income, that outpace the rising cost of goods.

Similarly, the ambitious plans for tourism development require substantial investment in infrastructure and marketing. While the government’s efforts to promote offbeat destinations and sustainable tourism are laudable, the sector’s growth will depend on attracting private investment and addressing critical challenges like sustainability and waste management, while also dealing with rising operational costs due to inflation.

Some headline-making announcements like free rides for women in public transport and 200 free units of solarised power for AAY population fail to impress the general public. The argument is J&K has almost non-existent public transport. About 850 public buses with a passenger capacity of 35,000 people do not even suffice the transport needs of the 1% of the 1.2 crore population of J&K. The 200 e-buses for two metro capital cities, announced in last year’s budget, failed to take route. CM has repeated the announcement this year.

The government’s commitment to empowering MSMEs and startups is also noteworthy. However, ensuring access to finance and creating a conducive business environment will be essential for fostering entrepreneurship, and this becomes more difficult when inflation creates financial uncertainty. In last year’s budget, a good amount was announced under Youth Startup and Seed Capital Schemes but both schemes failed to take off.

Also, the budget is unable to address the burgeoning unemployment that, as per some private surveys, has reached 32%.

Whatever the allocations, the success of this budget will be now judged by its ability to deliver tangible benefits to the people of J&K. While the government’s efforts to reduce the fiscal deficit are commendable, it must also prioritize investments that will drive economic growth, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for all citizens, while also mitigating the effects of inflation.

The challenge lies in navigating fiscal constraints and inflationary pressures while maintaining momentum on the development path. This budget sets the stage for a critical year ahead, one that will test the Omar Abdullah government’s ability to balance its books and deliver on its promises, in a climate of rising prices.

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Economy

SKUAST-K to hold mega Science Summit on Aug 23-24

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SKUAST-K Mega Science Summit

Srinagar, Aug 21: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir is hosting a mega first-of-its-kind science summit ‘Kashmir Science Vision-2024’ on August 23-24 at Shalimar campus. The event is expected to bring together leading scientists, researchers, policymakers, entrepreneurs and scholars to discuss and develop science and technology policy for the sustainable future of Jammu and Kashmir with a focus on helping the UT to emerge as a model for Viksit Bharat@2047.

The Kashmir Science Vision Summit will feature a dynamic range of keynote lectures, panel discussions and brainstorming sessions.

These discussions will focus on key areas of regional development like Scientific Innovations & Entrepreneurial Opportunities for exploring how technology can be harnessed to drive socio-economic growth and create new business opportunities, Biomedical & New-Age Sciences for advancing healthcare through innovative medical sciences and improving health outcomes for the region’s residents. Food Security & Sustainability for promoting sustainable agricultural practices to ensure long-term food security and environmental health, Biodiversity Conservation & Disaster Management for developing strategies to protect the region’s unique ecosystems and mitigate the impact of natural disasters will also feature in the two-day summit.

The summit aims to foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders to ensure that scientific advancements translate into meaningful benefits for Jammu and Kashmir.

Vice Chancellor SKUAST-K Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai said the summit will serve as a catalyst for the region’s sustainable development and strategic growth. “It will be remembered as the spark that ignited science and technology-led future-ready Jammu & Kashmir,” he added.

Pertinent to mention, SKUAST-K is a premier institution dedicated to advancing agricultural sciences and technology. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, the university plays a pivotal role in fostering sustainable development and technological progress in the region.

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Trade

Lenskart enters Kashmir market, opens shop at Regal Chowk

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Lenskart enters Kashmir market

Srinagar: Lenskart, India’s leading eyewear brand, has forayed into the Kashmir valley with the opening of its first outlet at Regal Chowk in Srinagar city. This expansion marks a significant milestone for Lenskart as it continues its mission to provide vision correction solutions to every individual across the country and beyond.

With seven successful stores already established in J&K UT’s Jammu city and plans underway for another outlet in Sanat Nagar, Srinagar, Lenskart aims to extend its presence to every nook and corner of Srinagar city.

“We have plans to expand our reach into other districts of Kashmir soon, ensuring accessibility to quality eyewear products and services for all residents,” said Dr Mohammad Mutaher Zerger, who heads Lenskart’s Portfolio and Franchisee Business Divisions.

Dr Mutaher is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in franchise management. Having previously served at McDonald’s, the new head of franchise at Lenskart brings valuable expertise in expansion strategies and operational excellence. “We are dedicated to providing state-of-the-art sophistication in eyewear technology, coupled with unparalleled customer service,” he added.

Lenskart’s commitment to accessibility and affordability is reflected in its offerings, including the innovative Buy One Get One (BOGO) facility available at all Lenskart outlets and online. Additionally, the brand provides complimentary eye testing facilities, ensuring that customers receive comprehensive care tailored to their needs.

Lenskart enters Kashmir market

Lenskart Founder, Shark Piyush Bansal’s Vision is to give correction-less vision to the entire India.

In line with its dedication to innovation and excellence, Lenskart recently inaugurated a cutting-edge robotic factory in Bhiwandi, where lens production and fittings are carried out with precision and efficiency. This advanced facility underscores Lenskart’s commitment to leveraging technology to deliver superior-quality products to its customers.

Lenskart enters Kashmir market

With a network of 1800 stores across India and a growing presence in international markets such as Singapore, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, and the UAE, Lenskart is poised for further expansion into other countries in the Middle East and Asia-Pacific regions.

Lenskart’s entry into Kashmir signifies not only its commitment to providing vision correction solutions but also its dedication to empowering individuals with the gift of clear vision, enabling them to lead more fulfilling lives.

 

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