In November 2025, the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) organized a significant event in Udaipur, Rajasthan, marking the culmination of the 75th anniversary of the National Sample Survey (NSS) alongside the observance of World Statistics Day. This event also saw the introduction of the highly anticipated "National Industrial Classification (NIC) 2025".
The ceremony was graced by the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge), Rao Inderjit Singh, who served as the Chief Guest. Also present was Geeta Singh Rathore, Director General of NSS. The event concluded a year-long celebration themed "National Sample Survey: From the Glorious Past to the Promising Future for Viksit Bharat @ 2047."
The NIC 2025 represents a fundamental tool for statistical surveys and policy formulation. First introduced in 1962, this system aligns with international standards, reflecting changes in economic activities, including renewable energy, fintech, and e-commerce. The latest revision was carried out by MoSPI under the guidance of the Expert Committee for Revision of Economic Classifications (ECREC).
Notably, NIC 2025 introduces a new 6-digit coding structure, replacing the previous 5-digit format. This update reflects India's evolving economic landscape and includes significant shifts in indigenous sectors like AYUSH healthcare and handloom industries.
During the event, MoSPI released a coffee table book titled "From Inception to Innovation: The Story of NSS," which highlights the organisation's 75-year journey. Additionally, a journal named "Stories Behind Numbers – Journal of FOD" was unveiled, featuring creative works by NSS staff. A special Sarvekshana supplement was also released, commemorating the contributions of NSS researchers over the years.
The launch of the Data Innovation (DI) Lab Portal marked another milestone, providing a digital platform for promoting innovation in official statistics through AI and ML use cases. An Anthem of the NSO, sung by the renowned artist Shankar Mahadevan, was also introduced to celebrate the occasion.
A panel discussion titled "Stories of Data Collection in NSS Surveys" was hosted by S. L. Menaria, a former DG. The discussion featured insights from various stakeholders, including a Sarpanch, a Girdawar, and an industrialist, shedding light on the diverse aspects of data collection in NSS surveys.
This comprehensive event not only celebrated the rich legacy of the National Sample Survey but also paved the way for a future of robust economic classification and innovative statistical methodologies.
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