India to Add GST and E-Vahan Data to Quarterly GDP Estimates

India’s quarterly GDP estimates will be revised to include aggregated GST filings, vehicle registration data from the e-Vahan portal, and natural gas consumption figures. These additions will be part of the new Quarterly National Accounts (QNA) series aligned with the FY23 base year, scheduled for release on February 27, 2026, as per news reports.  

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) outlined the proposed changes in a discussion paper released on January 23, 2026. 

Benchmarking Approach to Change 

MoSPI plans to replace the current benchmark–indicator method with proportional benchmarking using the Denton technique. The method aligns quarterly indicators with annual benchmarks while preserving quarterly movements.  

The ministry said this would reduce visible breaks in the data series and large revisions when annual estimates are updated. 

Updates on Production-Side Estimates 

Agriculture output will be estimated using volume extrapolation based on expanded crop production data. Manufacturing will shift to a double-deflation method, using both output and input wholesale price indices, with updated weights from the Annual Survey of Industries.  

Financial intermediation services indirectly measured (FISIM) for banks will be calculated using quarterly loan and deposit rates. 

Changes in Demand-Side Estimation 

Quarterly private consumption will be constructed using the COICOP 2018 framework and the latest Household Consumer Expenditure Survey. Inputs will include GST data, the Index of Industrial Production, and administrative data on electricity, gas, railways and vehicle purchases. This will replace the current practice of deriving quarterly estimates by deflating annual private consumption figures. 

State-Level Methodology Revisions 

For gross state domestic product, state shares for services will be based on GST outward supplies instead of fixed base-year ratios. Construction gross value added will be estimated using GST data classified by Harmonised System of Nomenclature and Service Accounting Code, rather than proxy indicators such as cement and steel consumption. 

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Conclusion 

The revised methodology integrates high-frequency administrative datasets and updated statistical techniques into quarterly GDP compilation. The FY23-based national accounts framework is intended to provide more detailed quarterly estimates and reduce volatility linked to benchmark revisions. 

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