India’s unemployment data dilemma

The article critically analyzes India's unemployment data, highlighting the challenges in accurately measuring employment quality and underemployment, especially given the vast informal sector and seasonal nature of jobs. It discusses the limitations of indicators like the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) and the Current Weekly Status (CWS) approach, arguing that monthly unemployment figures often reflect seasonal fluctuations rather than structural improvements. The piece emphasizes the need for a more comprehensive and credible labor market barometer that captures the reality of job quality, circular migration, and the distinction between formal and informal employment, rather than just headline rates.