Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) organized a half-day Workshop on Sensitization cum Feedback of Statistical Advisers (SAs) on 29^th August, 2024 at Scope Convention Centre, Scope Complex, Lodhi Road, New Delhi. The workshop was attended by Statistical Advisers/ representatives of Central Ministries/ Departments.

The Chief Guest of the workshop, Shri Amitabh Kant, India’s G20 Sherpa and former CEO, NITI Aayog addressed the gathering. In his inaugural address, he emphasisedinter-aliathe critical role of SAs for effective utilization of data for evidence-based decision making, policy impact analysis and mid-term course correction. While citing the measurement of incremental progress through clearly defined indicators and outcomes in Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP), he highlighted the importance of availability of relevant data on a short-term basis in public domain. Citing his experience of data-based interventions in Tourism sector, he urged theSAs to undertake studies to formulate data-driven policies and strategies in their domain. Emphasizing the role of Data and Strategy Unit (DSU) in each Ministry/ Department, he underlined the significance of use of emerging IT technologies, Data Science and analytical capacities to provide valuable policy insights. Further, he urged SAs to play a proactive role in engaging with the International Agencies by providing the updated data and, advising them on adoption of best practices/ methodologies  to reflect the correct position of India in international ranking.He opined that SAs will have to constantly measure the contribution of digital economy in India’s growth story.Signifying the central role of SAs in achieving the goal of making India developed- ViksitBharat@2047, he encouraged MoSPI and central Ministries/ Departments through SAs, to make collaborative efforts to put India in a leading position across global statistical landscape. 

Dr. Saurabh Garg, Secretary, MoSPI, in his address, highlighted some of the core activities identified to be undertaken by SAs which inter-aliaincludes optimum use of administrative data and their integration with surveys; adoption of National Meta Data Structure (NMDS) for interoperability; avoiding duplication of efforts; maintenance of statistical standards and adoption of quality practices; development of high frequency indicators;identifying & filling data gaps; visualization and communication of data.

During the workshop, presentations on varioussubjects of common interest were also made. Representatives from MoSPI presented the indicative roles and responsibilities of SAs in Central Ministries/ Departments; IT Initiatives of MoSPI and demonstration on National Metadata Structure (NMDS). Further, representative from Department for Promotion of Industry and Industrial Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce & Industry presented the activities of their Data and Strategy Unit. The representative of Department of School Education and Literacy, Ministry of Education made a presentation on UDISE+ and its application for ease of schooling and evidence-based decision making. The session was followed by detailed discussions and question answers.