Economic Statistics in a Shambles

Economic statistics are a public good. They are a vital necessity for policymaking and informed public discourse in democracies where citizens seek accountability from their government. The use of scientific methods for collection, estimation and their timely dissemination, therefore, form vital public services. It is, thus, imperative that the agencies associated with collection and dissemination of statistics, such as the Central Statistics Office (CSO) and the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), are not subject to political interference and their work

enjoys total credibility. For these reasons, globally, such institutions are usually bestowed with professional autonomy.