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Key Points

Professor Ajay Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor, emphasized the transformative potential of alternate data sources in policy making. He highlighted how frontier technologies can provide real-time, granular insights that complement traditional data approaches. The expert stressed the importance of ethical AI deployment and inter-institutional collaboration. His vision underscores India's emerging leadership in developing robust digital infrastructure and data-driven governance strategies.

Key Points: Ajay Sood Reveals Frontier Tech's Role in Smart Policy Making

  • Alternate data critical for agile policy making
  • AI/ML transforms data processing capabilities
  • Ethical technology deployment is paramount
  • Collaboration key to effective data utilization
2 min read

Alternate data sources, frontier technologies critical for policy making: Prof Ajay Sood

Prof Sood highlights critical importance of alternate data sources and emerging technologies in transforming government policy and decision-making processes

"While traditional data sources reflect where we have been, the alternate data sources indicate where we are heading - Prof Ajay Sood"

New Delhi, June 7

Alternate data sources and frontier technologies are increasingly becoming critical for policy making, according to Professor Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor to the government, who emphasised the need for best policy which blends both traditional and alternative data sources.

These high frequency indicators are more dynamic and offer timely insights, enabling policies to be more agile and responsive, he said during an event here, organised by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), in collaboration with NITI Aayog and the World Bank.

"While traditional data sources reflect where we have been, the alternate data sources indicate where we are heading. He added that though alternate data sources provide real time information at a much granular level, they cannot replace tradition data sources," said Professor Sood.

The event was attended by over 450 participants from central ministries, state governments, international organisations including the World Bank, academic and research institutions, and private sector entities.

Professor Sood further highlighted various use cases where alternate data sources have been effectively used. He stressed on the need for collaboration between government, academia, researchers, industry and international organizations for effective use of new technologies.

Professor Sood also called for ethical deployment of AI and said that data security and privacy concerns cannot be compromised. Further, he asserted that the development of techno-legal framework for Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) is a gift of India to the world.

Professor Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, Department of Science and Technology, said the policy-making process is a complex exercise which involve gathering of data, consultation with stakeholders and drawing insights.

"AI/ML has facilitated timely processing of data for designing actionable policies. In this age and time, challenge is not to collect data but how to make sense of the data. The real challenge lies in addressing issues relating to data privacy, data security, regulatory framework, and institutional readiness," he noted.

Dr Saurabh Garg, Secretary, MoSPI, emphasised on the need of fostering collaboration with various stakeholders for developing a robust statistical system to address the data needs for policy making.

He expected that in next 3-6 months, MoSPI will be able to implement some of the use cases that have been identified to harness alternate data sources and the application of frontier technologies.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
This is a much-needed discussion! India's digital infrastructure like Aadhaar and UPI has already shown how tech can transform governance. But we must be careful about data privacy - hope the government maintains strict safeguards while adopting these new methods. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳
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Priya M.
While I appreciate the focus on technology, I hope traditional data collection methods aren't completely sidelined. Many rural areas still lack proper digital access. Policy making should balance both approaches to be truly inclusive of all Indians.
A
Arjun S.
Great initiative! India's tech talent combined with strong policy framework can make us global leaders in digital governance. The 3-6 month timeline seems ambitious though - hope they don't compromise quality for speed. Data security is non-negotiable.
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Neha T.
Finally some focus on ethical AI! 👏 So many countries are rushing into AI without proper safeguards. India should lead by example with responsible tech policies that protect citizens while driving innovation. The Digital Public Infrastructure framework could be our next big export!
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Sanjay V.
I work in data analytics and this is music to my ears! Real-time data can revolutionize how we address issues like inflation, unemployment, and healthcare access. But the government must ensure transparency in how this data is collected and used. No room for misuse!
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Kavita R.
The collaboration between ministries, academics and private sector is crucial. Too often we see silos in government departments. Hope this leads to more coordinated policymaking that actually benefits common people like us. Fingers crossed! 🤞

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