Govt heeds economists' advice, defers releasing GDP back series data

Sources in government said it was cautious about the data since it pertains to economic growth during previous governments as well

Minutes before the back series of gross domestic product (GDP) for the base year 2011-12 was to be released, the NITI Aayog and the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) on Monday decided to “defer” it. The decision was taken at a meeting between the two along with economists.

“During the discussion, experts sought analytical information, which is being worked out. It was, therefore, decided to have a follow-up round-table discussion with experts soon,” said Anna Roy, advisor for data management and analysis at the NITI Aayog said. The release of the data could have put to rest all