Surveys and Studies to Study Employment and Its Composition

Understanding the intricate dynamics of employment and its composition in India necessitates a comprehensive classification of surveys and studies that delve into this multifaceted realm. The landscape of employment in India is complex, characterized by diverse sectors, demographics, and regional variations. Various methodologies and approaches are employed to capture this complexity, ranging from nationwide surveys to localized studies focusing on specific segments of the workforce. By categorizing these surveys and studies based on their scope, methodology, and objectives, a nuanced understanding of the employment scenario in India can be attained. This classification serves as a foundational framework for researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders alike, facilitating informed analysis and targeted interventions aimed at addressing the challenges and harnessing the opportunities inherent in India’s employment landscape.

Table of Contents

Classification of Surveys and Studies to Study Employment and Its Composition in India:

Household Surveys:
- Description:
  - Positive Aspects:
    - Comprehensively cover the entire labor force.
  - Limitations:
    - Conducted every five years, leading to infrequent updates.
    - Time lag between data collection and availability of results.
- Examples:
  - Employment-Unemployment Survey (NSSO)
  - Annual Labour Force Survey (Labour Bureau)
Enterprise Surveys:
- Description:
  - Positive Aspects:
    - Better accuracy in accessing industry structure, wages, and other employment characteristics.
  - Limitations:
    - Sample frames may not cover small, unorganized enterprises.
    - Excludes self-employed and farm workers.
- Examples:
  - Economic Census (by MOSPI)
  - Annual Survey of Industries (MoSPI)
  - Unorganized Sector Surveys of Industries and Services (NSSO)
  - Quarterly Employment Survey (QES) (Labour Bureau)
Social Security Schemes:
- Description:
  - Positive Aspects:
    - Wide coverage of new job additions.
  - Limitations:
    - Highly partial coverage and potential double-counting of jobs.
    - Substantial overlap across government schemes.
- Examples:
  - Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO)
  - Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC)
Other Sources:
- Administrative Data:
  - Positive Aspects:
    - Good measure of formal employment.
  - Limitations:
    - Partial coverage.
    - Difficult to gauge the addition of jobs.
- Data from Government Schemes:
  - Includes estimates via MGNREGA, MUDRA, job creations under programs such as ICDS, PMKVY, DDUGKY, etc.
- Emerging Sources:
  - GSTN, Big Data Analytics.

Each type of survey or study has its own strengths and limitations, and a comprehensive understanding of employment composition in India requires a holistic approach, combining insights from various sources. The periodicity, accuracy, and coverage of these sources contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the dynamic employment landscape in the country.

FAQs

1. What are the main types of surveys and studies used to analyze employment in India?

Main types include:
- National Sample Survey (NSS)
- Census of India
- Labor Force Surveys
- Economic Census
- Periodic Labor Force Survey (PLFS)

2. What is the National Sample Survey (NSS) and how does it contribute to understanding employment composition?

NSS is a large-scale, continuous survey conducted by the Government of India.
It collects data on various socio-economic aspects, including employment.
NSS provides insights into employment patterns across different sectors, regions, and demographics.

3. How does the Census of India help in studying employment composition?

The Census of India is conducted every ten years and provides comprehensive demographic data.
It offers insights into the size and distribution of the workforce across various categories such as age, gender, education, and occupation.
This data aids in understanding employment composition trends over time.

4. What role do Labor Force Surveys play in analyzing employment in India?

Labor Force Surveys are specialized studies focusing specifically on the labor market.
They provide detailed information on employment status, unemployment rates, and characteristics of the workforce.
These surveys help in understanding the dynamics of employment, including informal sector participation and underemployment.

5. How does the Economic Census contribute to understanding employment in India?

The Economic Census is conducted every few years and provides data on various economic activities, including employment.
It offers insights into the structure and distribution of enterprises, which indirectly reflects employment patterns.
This data complements other surveys by providing a comprehensive view of employment across different sectors and industries.

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Classification of Surveys and Studies to Study Employment and Its Composition in India – UPSC Economy Notes