- The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the ₹4,371.10 crore Viksit Bharat Initiative for Statistical Transformation, Analytics & Research (VISTAR) Scheme for the financial years 2026–27 to 2030–31.
- The initiative aims to modernise India’s official statistical system by introducing advanced digital technologies, artificial intelligence (AI), improved data collection mechanisms and stronger research capabilities.
- Aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, the scheme will help develop a more dynamic, reliable and future-ready statistical infrastructure.
Three Major Components of the VISTAR Scheme
The VISTAR Scheme comprises three major components:
- Comprehensive Statistical Operations and Strengthening of Ecosystem: Improving national surveys, statistical research and digital data management.
- Support for Statistical Strengthening (SSS 2.0): Providing financial and technical support to States and Union Territories to strengthen their statistical systems.
- Economic Census: Conducting the 8th Economic Census to collect detailed information about non-farm establishments and their workers.
59 Surveys Planned to Improve Data Collection
- Under the scheme, the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) proposes conducting 59 surveys during the 16th Finance Commission cycle, compared with 43 major surveys conducted previously.
- The expanded survey programme aims to address important data gaps and improve evidence-based policymaking.
AI and Digital Technology to Modernise Statistics
- The government plans to introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) into regular statistical workflows, particularly for data processing, validation and analysis.
- The initiative will also explore alternative data sources, including mobile phone, scanner and e-commerce data, to complement traditional surveys.
8th Economic Census to Provide Detailed Business Data
- Another important component is the 8th Economic Census, which will be conducted in collaboration with States and Union Territories.
- It will collect information about non-farm establishments and their workers up to the Gram Panchayat and municipal ward levels.
- The information will help assess India’s unorganised sector and support the development of a National Statistical Business Register.