Bhubaneswar: A technical team of World Bank, led by Senior Economist and Team Lead Thomas Danielewitz, conducted a comprehensive review meeting with officers from the Directorate of Economics and Statistics (DES), Odisha, Friday. The meeting focused on enhancing the state’s statistical data ecosystem as part of the World Bank-supported Odisha State Capability and Resilient Growth Programme. During the session, the World Bank team engaged with state’s Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary Anu Garg to discuss key strategies for improving the state’s statistical systems.
A primary point of discussion was the introduction of Generic Statistics Business Process Modelling within the state’s operations. This approach is expected to streamline the process of data collection, analysis, and usage, ensuring adherence to internationally recognised standards and incorporating cutting-edge methodologies and technologies. In addition to strengthening the data system, the World Bank team proposed organising exposure visits for DES officials to leading states and countries. These visits would offer an opportunity to observe statistical ecosystemsglobal best practices in data systems, equipping the officials with the knowledge and skills to drive innovation and improvements in Odisha’s governance.
A central focus of the meeting was the creation of the Odisha Integrated Statistical System (OISS), a comprehensive framework designed to streamline data collection and ensure the availability of timely and accurate information for decision-makers across all sectors. The OISS would serve as the foundation for data-driven policymaking, ensuring that government decisions are based on reliable, real-time data. In her closing remarks, Garg expressed her strong support for these initiatives, stressing the importance of integrating the latest technology—both in hardware and software—into the state’s statistical system. She emphasised that a robust statistical framework would be vital for evidence-based decision-making, which would, in turn, support effective planning, policy formulation, and governance in Odisha.
