Proper data use crucial for policy-making: Himachal Chief Secy

Himachal Chief Secretary Sanjay Gupta today said that in the era of artificial intelligence (AI) and information technology (IT), the role of data was constantly increasing and “we need to use it for better results”. He was speaking at the inauguration of a workshop on ‘Strengthening the use of data in Governance in Himachal Pradesh’ here.

Gupta said, “In the era of AI and IT, the role of data is constantly increasing. The better use of data will not only help in policy formulation but also accelerate the progress of the state. The true power of data is revealed when various facts are properly integrated.”

He said that ‘Data Literacy’ also played a crucial role in its collection. He added that accuracy was crucial while maintaining data. “Various departments collect different types of data but its proper aggregation and integration was essential for planning,” he added.

The Chief Secretary said that officials should monitor and analyse the data coming from field offices together keeping the confidentiality of departments to prevent tampering. Gupta added that it was essential to develop a secure and interoperable State Data Integration Platform, build a robust data governance infrastructure, establish data labs or policy labs in collaboration with institutions to encourage interdepartmental data use and make data an integral part of administrative functioning.

The Chief Secretary said, “Himachal Pradesh is performing exceptionally well in various sectors like rural economy, education and health. The state’s progress should be reflected in data and should be made user-friendly for the public.”

Finance Secretary Abhishek Jain said that the most important asset today was data and the collection of accurate information. He added that data provided insights into many important aspects related to various sectors.