NITI Aayog’s Data Forum 2024

NITI Aayog hosted the Data Forum 2024, a collaborative initiative with the World Bank, the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), and the Government of Odisha, on November 21-22, Bhubaneshwar. The engagement brought together experts to explore innovative strategies for leveraging data in development, with a particular focus on gender outcomes.

Dr Pallavi Choudhuri, Senior Fellow & Deputy Director at NDIC-NCAER, spoke at the session “Data Systems for Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” emphasizing the role of data-driven policymaking in improving gender equality, including the need to examine both granular level survey and administrative data. The session, chaired by Ms. Anu Garg, Development Commissioner, Government of Odisha, began with a presentation by Christopher Garroway, Chief Economist, UN RCO (Resident Coordinator Office), which set the stage for the rest of the speakers.

Key takeaways from the two-day forum included leveraging diverse data sources to drive development, learning from global best practices, and highlighting impactful initiatives by Central and State ministries. Participants highlighted the critical role of robust data systems in shaping policies aligned with SDGs, particularly in addressing inequalities and fostering sustainable growth.

The Data Forum 2024 showcased the power of collaboration and the transformative potential of data in achieving equitable and impactful development outcomes.