We have identifiers for integrating data from different databases, need to leverage them: MoSPI secretary

MoSPI secretary highlights the need for timely data

People’s expectations are rising and the ministry needs to work in addressing such rising requirements, ministry of statistics and programme implementation secretary Saurabh Garg said on February 13 at the 17th Foundation Day of training academy of the ministry.

“User expectations are increasing, everyone wants data yesterday,” the secretary noted, highlighting that a lot more innovations were entering the field.

"We need to look at digitalisation and e-governance. We have a number of unique identifiers, like GST, Aadhaar and Udyam ID, for integrating data from different databases,” the secretary said.

He also highlighted the need for integrating scanner, night light data, calling for more collaborations to tap these sources. The ministry had announced projects for collaborations earlier this year.

The secretary also laid emphasis on the need for more robust data collection.

“The possible decline in response rates in certain categories, we need to be cognizant as we go forward,” the secretary said, pointing to the example of the UK.

The secretary also reiterated the need for tapping alternative sources of data, like ecommerce data for CPI collation.

Moneycontrol had earlier reported that the ministry was working to integrate e-commerce data for its data collection from online portals, but was facing difficulties with regards to getting companies to respond.

The secretary also noted the work done by the ministry on releasing statistics with more frequency.

The ministry is releasing unemployment indicators from April and is also working towards quarterly unincorporated enterprises survey.

“Engagement with states is one area which we are focusing to develop state level indicators,” he said.

The discussion also focused on use of emerging technologies.

“There is no denying use of data science and ChatGPT in statistics. We must apply our mind and see what is the best way to use it,” said National Statistical Commission chairman RL Karandikar.