Daily Current Affairs MCQs: 6th November 2025 with solutions - Bank Exams

The primary aim of India's first Household Income Survey (HIS) is to directly measure household incomes. This initiative seeks to provide accurate data essential for understanding income distribution and inequality in the country. Unlike previous surveys that relied on indirect methods, the HIS will offer a comprehensive dataset that links income with various socio-economic factors, allowing for better policymaking.

INS Ikshak is built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd. (GRSE) in Kolkata. This organization plays a significant role in the Indian defense sector, contributing to the development of various naval vessels, thereby enhancing India's maritime capabilities and promoting self-reliance through indigenous manufacturing.

INS Ikshak is notable for being India's first survey vessel that provides dedicated accommodation for women officers and sailors. This design choice underscores the Indian Navy's commitment to gender inclusivity and empowerment within its ranks, reflecting broader societal changes towards gender equality.

A significant challenge identified during the pilot testing of the HIS is the reluctance of respondents to disclose personal income information. This reluctance can stem from cultural norms surrounding privacy and financial matters. To address this issue, the government is considering allowing affluent households to self-compile their income data, which may increase comfort levels and response accuracy.

The primary mission role of INS Ikshak is to conduct hydrographic surveys and provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations. This multifunctional capability is crucial for maritime safety and disaster response, enhancing the Indian Navy's operational readiness and versatility in various scenarios.

The HIS aims to improve existing income estimation methods by directly measuring household incomes and linking this data with demographic, occupational, and social variables. This comprehensive approach allows for a more accurate assessment of socio-economic conditions, addressing critical data gaps that have historically affected policy decisions.

INS Ikshak is equipped with advanced surveying technologies, including a multi-beam echo sounder, Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV), and Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV). These technologies enable detailed coastal and deep-water mapping, enhancing the vessel's effectiveness in conducting hydrographic surveys and contributing to maritime safety and navigation.

The data collected from the HIS is significant for policymakers as it will help in mapping income across different demographics and assessing welfare impacts. This information is vital for informed decision-making regarding taxation, poverty alleviation, and other social programs, enabling a more equitable distribution of resources.

The HIS aims to fill the critical gap of directly measuring household incomes, which has been a significant challenge in India's socio-economic data collection. Previous surveys relied on indirect methods, often leading to inaccuracies in understanding the true economic conditions of households. The HIS seeks to provide a clearer picture, essential for effective policy formulation.

The name "Ikshak" translates to "Guide" in Sanskrit, emphasizing the vessel's role in ensuring maritime safety and navigation. This nomenclature reflects the vessel's mission to assist in hydrographic surveys and disaster relief operations, guiding safe passage and enhancing operational effectiveness in the Indian Ocean Region.