Monthly Employment Data
The National Statistics Office (NSO) will begin releasing monthly employment numbers through the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS). This initiative aims to provide timely and relevant data regarding employment and unemployment trends across India. The monthly data will be accompanied by quarterly results for rural, urban, and combined areas. This change is part of a broader effort to enhance the quality and frequency of labour market indicators.
PLFS
The Periodic Labour Force Survey was launched in 2017. Its primary goal is to generate estimates of key employment indicators. Initially, the PLFS focused on urban areas, but it has since expanded to include rural data. The survey provides vital information about the labour force participation rate, worker population ratio, and unemployment rate.
Monthly and Quarterly Data Release
Starting from May 2025, the NSO will release monthly bulletins containing employment data for April 2025. Quarterly bulletins will follow, with the first covering April to June 2025 set for release in August 2025. This new frequency of data release aims to provide a more dynamic view of employment trends.
Revamped Sampling Design
Recently, the sampling design of the PLFS was revamped. This change allows for more accurate estimates of employment indicators. Districts are now the primary geographical units for sampling. This adjustment enhances the representativeness of the survey results across various regions.
Key Employment Indicators
The revamped PLFS will focus on several critical indicators. These include the labour force participation rate, worker population ratio, and unemployment rate. The data will be reported for both rural and urban areas, providing a comprehensive view of the labour market.
Reference Periods for Activity Status
The PLFS uses two frameworks to determine a person’s activity status. The ‘Usual Status’ (ps+ss) considers the past 365 days, while the ‘Current Weekly Status’ (CWS) looks at the last seven days. This dual approach allows for a more nuanced understanding of employment dynamics.
Historical Context
Since its inception, the PLFS has released numerous quarterly bulletins. By the end of 2024, twenty-five bulletins had been published. The annual reports cover the survey period from July of one year to June of the next. These reports provide estimates for both rural and urban areas.
Importance of PLFS
The PLFS plays important role in informing policymakers and researchers. It provides essential data for understanding employment trends and shaping labour policies. The increased frequency of data release will enhance the ability to respond to economic changes.
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