New Delhi, June 3, 2026 The National Statistics Office (NSO) has released a uniform guideline for the compilation of District Domestic Product (DDP) estimates with base year 2022-23, establishing a common framework for district-level economic statistics across India.
According to the Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation (MoSPI), the guideline is designed to ensure consistency, comparability and methodological standardisation in the preparation of district-level aggregates. It details concepts, coverage, data sources and estimation procedures for Gross District Domestic Product (GDDP), Net District Domestic Product (NDDP) and per capita income.
The framework emphasises the use of a bottom-up approach, wherever feasible, drawing on district-level administrative and survey data. In sectors where detailed district-wise information is limited, the guideline recommends suitable top-down methods with appropriate allocation indicators to derive robust and comparable estimates.
Currently, 26 States and Union Territories compile DDP estimates. MoSPI said it is continuing efforts to bring all States/UTs on board under a uniform and comparable methodology, a move expected to harmonise estimation practices and strengthen the institutional framework for district statistics.
The final document follows a public consultation process. MoSPI had placed the draft ‘Guideline for Compilation of District Domestic Product (DDP) Estimates’ on its website on April 7, 2026, inviting feedback from States/UTs, academic institutions, researchers and other users of sub-state statistics. The final guideline incorporates suggestions received from stakeholders.
Authorities expect the availability of reliable and comparable DDP estimates to support decentralised planning, evidence-based policymaking, regional development assessments and informed decision-making at the district level. The guideline is also intended to help States/UTs improve data systems and build statistical capacity for preparing robust district estimates.
Key features highlighted by the NSO include:
– A standardised framework to compile GDDP, NDDP and per capita income at the district level
– Preference for bottom-up estimation based on district-level data
– Recommended top-down allocation indicators where district data are limited
– Alignment aimed at strengthening institutional capacity and improving data systems
The ‘Guideline for Compilation of District Domestic Product (DDP) Estimates’ with base year 2022-23 has been released and uploaded on MoSPI’s official website. States and Union Territories are expected to align their estimation practices with the framework to enhance the quality and comparability of district statistics nationwide.
