Strong statistical systems key to achieving Viksit Bharat by 2047, says PM's principal secretary
India requires a reliable and technology-enabled statistical system to aid evidence-based policymaking. Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister P K Mishra emphasized the need for stronger state-level statistical institutions. He highlighted the importance of integrating data systems and using advanced technologies for accurate statistics. Mishra urged that more granular data is essential for…
New Delhi: India requires a cutting-edge statistical system to underpin evidence-based decision-making and realize its ambition of becoming a developed nation by 2047, declared Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister P K Mishra on Tuesday. At the opening of a conference for state planning, finance, and IT secretaries, Mishra emphasized the need for robust state-level statistical institutions, improved coordination between the Centre and states, and enhanced integration of data systems.
He likened statistics to a strategic national asset, urging the development of a modern and ambitious statistical architecture that matches India's national aspirations.
Mishra stressed that India's statistical systems must keep up with an increasingly digital, formalized, and interconnected economy. The rollout of a new National Accounts Series, using 2022-23 as the base year, and updated Consumer Price Index and Index of Industrial Production series, will help align economic measurement with changing realities.
He also highlighted the potential of artificial intelligence, machine learning, geospatial systems, and satellite imagery to improve the timeliness and accuracy of official statistics. However, Mishra warned that technology alone cannot compensate for poor-quality data, and speed must not be prioritized over accuracy. Moreover, he cautioned against undermining confidentiality while ensuring wider data access.
India's development priorities necessitate more granular data at the state, district, and local levels, rather than relying solely on national averages. Mishra argued that a stronger statistical system would enable governments to evaluate policy outcomes, identify regional disparities, and ensure public spending delivers the intended results.
He called for a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), state statistical offices, finance and planning departments, NITI Aayog, and academic institutions to create a trusted, transparent, and interoperable statistical architecture that will guide India's development through 2047.
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