Nagaland is preparing for the 8th Economic Census 2025-26, a major initiative aimed at gathering comprehensive data on entrepreneurial units, businesses, and workforce participation across the state. Conducted in collaboration with States and Union Territories, this Economic Census will utilize advanced Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to ensure real-time data validation, geo-coded data collection, and interactive dashboards for enhanced monitoring and supervision.
The announcement was made by Akunu S Meyase, Secretary of Economics & Statistics, during the first State Level Coordination Committee (SLCC) meeting, chaired by Nagaland Chief Secretary Dr. J Alam.
What is the Economic Census?
The Economic Census is a nationwide exercise conducted by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) to provide a detailed count of business establishments and workers, with a special focus on the non-agricultural sector. This will be the eighth such census, following the successful completion of seven previous Economic Censuses in collaboration with various states and union territories.
The data collected will play a crucial role in shaping economic policies, business development strategies, and employment programs in Nagaland and across India.
Advanced Technology in the 8th Economic Census
The upcoming census will be technology-driven, leveraging Information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools to ensure accuracy, transparency, and efficiency. Key technological advancements include:
- Geo-Coded Data Collection: Use of mobile devices for real-time data entry and location-based tracking of businesses and establishments.
- Real-Time Data Validation: Ensuring immediate verification and scrutiny of collected data to minimize errors and enhance reliability.
- Interactive MIS Dashboards: A Management Information System (MIS) will be used to monitor, analyze, and supervise data collection efforts effectively.
These technological improvements will streamline the data collection process, allowing for more accurate economic insights and better policy formulation.
Key Focus Areas of the 8th Economic Census in Nagaland
The 8th Economic Census 2025-26 will cover multiple aspects of Nagaland’s economic landscape, including:
- Entrepreneurial and Business Units: Identifying the number, size, and type of businesses operating in the state.
- Employment Data: Gathering information on workforce distribution, sectoral employment trends, and labor force participation.
- Urban and Rural Economic Activity: Examining economic trends in both urban centers and rural areas to determine growth patterns.
- Non-Agricultural Sector Insights: Assessing the contribution of industries, retail businesses, service sectors, and manufacturing units.
- Women-Led Enterprises: Special focus on women entrepreneurs and their role in the state’s economic growth.
This comprehensive data collection will provide valuable insights for policymakers, businesses, and investors looking to boost Nagaland’s economic development.
Importance of the 8th Economic Census for Nagaland
The 8th Economic Census 2025-26 will serve as a critical tool for planning and development in Nagaland. The data will help in:
- Identifying growth opportunities in various sectors.
- Formulating policies to support small businesses and startups.
- Improving employment strategies based on workforce trends.
- Strengthening economic planning for urban and rural development.
- Promoting local industries and attracting investments.
Role of the State Government and Stakeholders
The success of the Economic Census depends on cooperation between the Nagaland government, business communities, and local authorities. The State Level Coordination Committee (SLCC), led by Chief Secretary Dr. J Alam, will oversee the implementation process, ensuring smooth execution and accuracy in data collection.
Additionally, public awareness campaigns and training programs will be conducted to familiarize field enumerators and citizens with the census process. Business owners, traders, and entrepreneurs are encouraged to actively participate and provide accurate information to facilitate a comprehensive economic assessment of Nagaland.
The 8th Economic Census 2025-26 marks a major step forward in economic planning and policy development in Nagaland. By utilizing cutting-edge technology and data-driven approaches, the census will provide valuable insights into the state’s business landscape, employment trends, and economic opportunities.
With the Nagaland government, MoSPI, and local stakeholders working together, this initiative will pave the way for informed decision-making, sustainable economic growth, and better opportunities for businesses and workers in the region. As the state gears up for this large-scale data collection exercise, the participation of business communities and citizens will be crucial in ensuring a successful and accurate Economic Census.
