Meeting with World Bank Mission Team

A meeting with the World Bank Mission Team on the externally aided project “Strengthening the State Statistical System” under the Odisha State Capability and Resilient Growth Programme was held at the Planning & Convergence Department Conference Hall, Bhubaneswar.

The meeting was chaired by Smt. Anu Garg, IAS, Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary, Odisha. Other attendees included Sri D. K. Jena, OSD-cum-Special Secretary, P&C Department, and Dr. Bijaya Bhusan Nanda, Director, Economics and Statistics, who briefed the team on progress made under the project.

The World Bank Mission Team, led by Mr. Thomas and including Ms. Shreya Dutta, presented the roadmap for the project.

Odisha’s Vision for Data-Driven Governance

Smt. Garg emphasized that Odisha is committed to transforming data into a strategic tool, placing the Directorate of Economics and Statistics (DES) at the core of this effort. She highlighted that this initiative is integral to the State’s aspirations for Viksit Odisha 2036 and 2047, aiming for governance guided by evidence and measurable impact.

Adoption of Global Statistical Standards

Odisha has become the only state in India to formally adopt the Generic Statistical Business Process Model (GSBPM) framework, aligning its statistical practices with internationally recognized standards.

The State has also introduced the National Data Archive (NADA), becoming the first in India to create a seamless system for data storage, access, and analysis, empowering citizens, researchers, and policymakers.

Innovations in Data Collection

The State has pioneered the Computer Assisted Personal Interview (CAPI) software for collecting data under various Price Statistics surveys.

A Survey Design & Research Division (SDRD) is planned within DES to institutionalize independent, scientifically designed household surveys for robust data collection, validation, and interpretation.

Strengthening District-Level Planning

Recognizing the importance of local-level economic planning, Odisha will accelerate District Domestic Product (DDP) estimation by engaging experts and strengthening DES capacity, enabling more precise and effective policy interventions.

Digital Transformation and Departmental Strengthening

DES aims for a complete digital transformation of its statistical outputs, ensuring faster production, timely dissemination, and greater transparency.

The State plans to strengthen statistical systems across all departments, starting with an assessment of the Energy, Tourism, and Housing & Urban Development Departments to propose tailored improvement measures.

Capacity Building and Knowledge Transfer

A team of DES officials will receive training in international best practices, returning to serve as catalysts to mentor peers across the State. Odisha reaffirmed its commitment to making data accessible, comprehensible, and actionable, turning numbers into narratives that guide governance and development.

Closing Remarks

The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks to the Chair, highlighting the shared belief that data, when harnessed with integrity and innovation, becomes a force for transformation, rather than just a tool for measurement.

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