The Field Operations Division of National Statistics Office organised a community discussion and awareness programme with the people of Petchiparai village on Tuesday on National Sample Surveys.

The event highlighted the benefits of National Sample Surveys (NSS) and aimed to foster a participatory data ecosystem by engaging the people of the village. The event was part of a nationwide initiative to raise awareness among the general public, particularly rural communities, about the importance and impact of the NSS in national development and policymaking.

Assistant Director of National Statistics Office, Southern Regional Office K.T. Sudheer briefed the participants about the purpose of the programme and the legacy of the NSS, which has been instrumental in generating reliable data since 1950.

He emphasised that NSS surveys cover a wide range of subjects including employment, consumer expenditure, health, education, and social welfare and provide essential data for both Central and State Governments in framing evidence-based policies.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from villagers, youth, women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs), farmers, school teachers, anganwadi workers and various community members. Over 150 residents gathered at the Community Hall, reflecting strong local interest in understanding the role of statistics in governance.

Interactive sessions were held where officials from NSO explained how survey data is collected, the importance of accurate responses, and how this data shapes key initiatives like PM Awas Yojana, Ayushman Bharat, Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Programme and food security schemes.

Participants were invited to share their personal experiences regarding government welfare schemes and how survey participation can help improve their implementation.