Principal Secretary to Prime Minister P.K. Mishra today said data collection and analysis are essential for evidence-based policymaking, particularly in the era of artificial intelligence. Addressing the  Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation Conclave at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, Mr Mishra said data would form the foundation of India’s development journey. He called for closer coordination between the Centre and states to harmonize data collection, adopt common definitions and use standard classifications. Mr Mishra said data generated at the state and district levels will play a crucial role in compiling national statistics, including estimates of gross domestic product. He added India had undergone major transformation over the past decade, with significant progress in infrastructure, digital public services, financial inclusion and entrepreneurship. He underscored that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047 must be measurable, with reliable data helping assess the country’s progress toward becoming a prosperous, inclusive, innovative and sustainable nation.