NCAER - NATIONAL DATA INNOVATION CENTRE
Dr Sonalde Desai (Professor and Centre Director, NCAER-NDIC) recently participated as a speaker in the second episode of Parisila Perspectives, NCAER’s podcast on macroeconomy and public policy. Hosted by NCAER Director General Mr. Suresh Goyal, the episode explored the theme “Data-led Change, Evidence-led Policy” and featured Dr Desai alongside Mr. Adil Zainulbhai, former Chairman of McKinsey India and former Chairman of the Capacity Building Commission and the Quality Council of India.
During the discussion on the changing landscape of data collection in the context of the growing adoption of artificial intelligence, Dr Desai noted that surveys will continue to serve as a credible source of evidence while advances in AI have the potential to improve processes such as quality monitoring and real-time translation. She also emphasised the importance of exercising caution when using emerging sources of data, highlighting the need for rigorous validation and scientific standards before they are incorporated into research and policymaking.
Mr. Adil Zainulbhai emphasised the value of targeted collaboration between ministry databases with complementary objectives, suggesting that such partnerships could improve efficiency while avoiding the challenges of large-scale data integration.
Further, both Dr Desai and Mr. Zainulbhai discussed the importance of high-quality data in informing evidence-based policymaking and strengthening public institutions. The conversation explored the opportunities and challenges associated with data collection, analysis, and dissemination, drawing on perspectives from research, governance, and practice.
Click on the links below to watch the full two-part episode:
Data-led Change, Evidence-led Policy | Parisila Perspectives | Episode 2 (Part one)
Data-led Change, Evidence-led Policy | Parisila Perspectives | Episode 2 (Part two)