ISI Kolkata hosts national statistics conclave on AI and modern tech in policy

The Indian Statistical Institute in Kolkata has launched a two-day national conclave focused on how artificial intelligence, advanced analytics and tech-backed data systems are transforming India's official statistical infrastructure to strengthen national governance.

The Indian Official Statistics Conclave on Theoretical and Empirical Issues opened on Tuesday at the institute's Platinum Jubilee Auditorium in Kolkata. Organised by the institute's Sampling and Official Statistics Unit, the gathering brings together senior economists, researchers and policy architects to review the modern technology driving India's data revolution.

EAC-PM chief points to major statistical reforms

Delivering the keynote address, Prof S Mahendra Dev, Chairman of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister, said India's official statistics system is undergoing a comprehensive transformation in its data sources, collection frequency and technological integration.

He noted that the long-term success of these national reforms depends on keeping underlying methodologies robust and maintaining public trust. Prof Dev called for expanded research across official statistical metrics, including updates to base years for index number calculations and refined estimations of district domestic product to better reflect local economic growth.

AI and data integration driving national growth

Speakers across the inaugural sessions emphasised that high-frequency data and artificial intelligence are becoming vital tools for evidence-based policy implementation. Swami Sarvottamanandaji Maharaj, Vice-Chancellor of the Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, noted that harnessing emerging technologies like AI significantly improves data utility for public decision-making.

Prof Saibal Kar, RBI Chair Professor of Economics at the Centre for Studies in Social Sciences, Kolkata, added that modern tech tools are essential for building the comprehensive databases required for contemporary economic research and governance.

Next steps for official data analytics

Welcoming delegates, ISI Director Prof Amartya Kumar Dutta highlighted the historical role of the institute in advancing sampling methods, noting that its modern focus directly contributes to nation-building. Former National Statistical Commission chairperson Prof Saibal Chattopadhyay also addressed the opening session.

The conclave continues on Wednesday with specialized technical sessions examining challenges in official statistics, official data analytics for policy formulation, and a dedicated panel on agricultural research methodology.