Accurate Data Foundation of Good Governance: VP Radhakrishnan
C. P. Radhakrishnan asks Indian Statistical Service officers to uphold integrity and strengthen data-driven governance
- Vice-President said accurate data is essential for effective governance and welfare delivery.
- Called on ISS officer trainees to uphold integrity, neutrality and professional ethics.
- Credited PM Narendra Modi’s leadership for expanding digital transactions and reducing the parallel economy.
- Emphasised field experience and innovation to build a robust statistical system for Viksit Bharat.
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 18th Aug: Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Tuesday underscored the importance of accurate and reliable data in governance, stating that effective policymaking, efficient resource allocation and successful implementation of welfare schemes depend on the quality of official statistics.
Addressing the 2026 batch of Indian Statistical Service (ISS) Officer Trainees at Uprashtrapati Bhavan, the Vice-President congratulated the 34 young officers, including 16 women, on joining the prestigious service. He said the growing representation of women in the ISS reflects India’s transition from women empowerment to women-led development.
Emphasising the significance of authentic data, Radhakrishnan said, “If the data is not correct, no decision can be correct.” He noted that inaccurate data could lead to poor planning, misallocation of scarce resources and failure to ensure that government benefits reach the intended beneficiaries.
He described official statistics as more than just numbers, calling them vital instruments of governance that help governments understand the socio-economic realities of the country and formulate effective policies. Stressing the need for field exposure, he said statisticians must understand ground realities to ensure accurate data collection, timely analysis and effective implementation of public welfare programmes.
The Vice-President also highlighted the strengthening of India’s statistical ecosystem through digital databases, GST data and high-frequency economic indicators. Crediting the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said the rapid expansion of digital transactions has significantly helped reduce the parallel economy while improving transparency in the financial system.
He observed that although economic indicators are important, they should be complemented by measures of happiness and quality of life to present a comprehensive picture of national progress.
Calling on the officer trainees to uphold the highest standards of professional ethics, Radhakrishnan stressed the importance of political neutrality, confidentiality, impartiality and integrity. He remarked that true respect for seniors lies in sincere and efficient discharge of responsibilities rather than ceremonial gestures.
Encouraging the young officers to embrace continuous learning, innovation and field experience, he said a strong, trustworthy statistical system would be instrumental in achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047.
Secretary, Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation Dr. Saurabh Garg, Director General (Data Governance) P. R. Meshram, senior ministry officials and the ISS officer trainees were present during the interaction.
