Archive · 11 Jun 2025
India's Statistical System Modernizes for a Digital Economy
Imagine India's economy is like a fast-moving car, and we need a good map to see where it's going.
The old maps (surveys) are still important, but they're not enough.
The government is updating how it measures the economy by using new tools like phone data, store scanners, and satellite info.
They're holding workshops to learn how to use this new data responsibly, with a focus on what data we need and why.
This will help make better decisions about how the country grows and helps its people.
India's statistical system is evolving to incorporate new data sources and technologies.
A recent workshop discussed integrating alternative data, like mobile data and scanner records.
Officials are emphasizing the need for data consistency and combining multiple sources.
The government aims to modernize its statistical approach to reflect the changing economy.
Public-private partnerships and ethical data practices will be key to the new system.
- Who
- The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), officials, statisticians, global experts, and industry representatives.
- What
- Modernizing India's statistical system by incorporating alternative data sources and technologies.
- When
- The process is ongoing, with a recent workshop held to discuss implementation.
- Where
- India
- Why
- To better understand and respond to the evolving economy, improve policymaking, and serve the needs of the people.
Current Approach
Future Approach
Data Sources
Current Approach
Rely primarily on traditional survey-based methods
Future Approach
Use new data streams (scanner data, mobile records, digital transactions) to build a robust and ethical system.
- Key Agency
- Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI)
- New Data Sources
- Alternative data sources like mobile data, geo-spatial data, and scanner data
- Digital Access
- Over 80% of households use smartphones
- Key Focus
- Focus on what to measure and why.
- Vision
- Aiming for Viksit Bharat 2047