Cabinet approves ‘Viksit Bharat Initiative for Statistical Transformation, Analytics & Research (VISTAR)’, a central sector scheme for the period 2026-27 to 2030-31

Key Highlights:

• The Union Cabinet approved the ‘Viksit Bharat Initiative for Statistical Transformation, Analytics & Research (VISTAR)’ Scheme.
• The scheme is for the period FY 2026-27 to FY 2030-31 with an outlay of ₹4,371.10 crore.
• VISTAR aims to establish a dynamic, real-time, and future-ready official statistical architecture for Viksit Bharat 2047.
• It focuses on enhanced timeliness, data granularity, interoperability, and AI-ready datasets.
• The scheme encompasses all statistical and data management activities of MoSPI.

Detailed Insights:

• VISTAR will upgrade India's official statistical system, providing strategic flexibility for resource allocation based on policy needs.
• It includes three components: Comprehensive Statistical Operations, Support for Statistical Strengthening (SSS), and Economic Census (EC).
• The scheme proposes conducting 59 surveys during the 16th Finance Commission cycle, filling critical data gaps for improved decision-making.
• MoSPI will digitalize statistical processes, embed AI/ML, and release new metrics like the Headline Index of Services Production.
• It will integrate alternate data sources (mobile, e-commerce) to complement traditional surveys and reduce respondent burden.
• SSS component provides funds to State/UT Governments for transforming statistical capabilities and generating granular data at district levels.
• The 8th Economic Census will provide granular data on non-farm establishments and workers, assessing the unorganized sector.
• Economic Census data will serve as a baseline for developing the National Statistical Business Register (SBR) and estimating the unorganized sector's GDP contribution.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Viksit Bharat 2047: India's vision to become a developed nation by its 100th year of independence.
• MoSPI: Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, responsible for statistical activities and program implementation in India.
• Economic Census: A complete enumeration of all economic establishments in India, providing data on the unorganized sector.
• National Statistical Business Register (SBR): A comprehensive database of all economic units in a country, used for statistical surveys and analysis.