India’s latest GDP growth figures of 7.8%—exceeding expectations—have ignited sharp debate over the accuracy of official economic data. Critics, including former officials, allege the government artificially inflated the numbers by revising last year’s figures downward, suggesting true growth may be far lower. The controversy underscores growing skepticism about the reliability of India’s statistical system, once praised for its rigor. With no consensus on the figures, the dispute highlights deeper divisions over economic transparency and performance.
India’s statistical system once commanded respect, and its data on economic and social indicators was considered rigorous – that appears to have erodedThere isn’t much that we Indians agree on these days. GDP numbers are no exception. Last week, India released glowing GDP numbers for the latest quarter – 7.8% growth – higher than the forecast 7%. It sparked a furore.Subhash Garg, a former finance secretary under Narendra Modi’s government and now a critic, reframed what Modi called a “herculean feat” as mere smoke and mirrors. According to Garg, the government revised last year’s current-price GDP downwards to inflate this year’s number – he believes the real growth is only 2.6%. Continue reading...
