Health Metrics Network established by the WHO is working with countries on the development of a set of standards and tools to improve synthesis, analysis and data use for major health planning and decision- making, such as health sector reviews and strategic plans. In India it has commissioned the IHS to conduct a situation and trends analysis which will build upon existing review process and data-gathering mechanisms. The review will be based on service data, data on health resources (human resources, financing, infrastructure), health system immediate outcomes, and health status data (mortality, morbidity and causes of death). Data form different sources will be reconciled to develop best estimates and to make health projections where possible.^[1]