Workshop on Citizen-Generated Data for SDGsWorkshop on Citizen-Generated Data for SDGs
On February 17, 2025, the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) hosted a half-day workshop titled “Leveraging Citizen-Generated Data (CGD) for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in India.” The event took place at Janganana Bhawan in New Delhi. This workshop is part of MoSPI’s ongoing efforts to utilize Citizen-Generated Data as a means to fill data gaps and enhance inclusivity in India’s national statistical framework. The workshop provided a platform for discussions on the Copenhagen Framework on CGD and its potential adaptation within India’s statistical system.
Importance of Citizen-Generated Data
Citizen-Generated Data (CGD) plays a crucial role in complementing official statistics. During the workshop, Dr. Saurabh Garg, Secretary of MoSPI, highlighted the significance of CGD in bridging data gaps and fostering inclusivity. He pointed out that CGD can enhance the monitoring and reporting of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Dr. Garg emphasized that India is already engaged in participatory planning processes, social auditing, and CPGRAMS, which align with the government’s vision of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, and Sabka Paryas.” This vision resonates with the SDG ethos of “No One is Left Behind.”
However, Dr. Garg also acknowledged the challenges in harnessing CGD. Issues such as subjectivity, representativeness, privacy, security, scalability, and sustainability must be addressed to unlock the full potential of citizen contributions to data. The workshop aimed to explore these challenges and discuss strategies for integrating CGD into the existing statistical framework.
MoSPI’s Commitment to Data Inclusivity
Shri N. K. Santoshi, Director General (CS) of MoSPI, delivered the welcome address, emphasizing the ministry’s commitment to addressing the extensive data requirements for SDG monitoring. He noted the importance of granular insights and the exploration of non-traditional data sources, including CGD and geo-spatial information. These innovative approaches aim to complement official statistics and improve the tracking of SDG progress at various administrative levels.
The workshop also featured representatives from UN agencies who provided insights into global advancements in CGD. They introduced the Copenhagen Framework on Citizen Data and discussed its relevance to the Indian context. This collaboration between MoSPI and international organizations aims to strengthen India’s data ecosystem and support evidence-based policymaking.
Insights from Industry Leaders
The workshop included presentations from industry leaders who shared their experiences with Citizen-Generated Data. Mr. Suresh Khadakbhavi, CEO of Digi Yatra Foundation, discussed how the DigiYatra platform generates CGD. His insights highlighted the potential of technology in collecting and utilizing citizen data effectively. Additionally, Mr. Rajiv Ranjan, DGM (D&T), State Bank of India, presented on the use of CGD in the Digital Life Certificate for Pensioners Scheme. These case studies illustrated the practical applications of CGD in various sectors.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Shri S. C. Malik, ADG of MoSPI. The workshop successfully brought together stakeholders from various sectors to discuss the potential of Citizen-Generated Data in achieving Sustainable Development Goals in India. The collaborative efforts showcased during the workshop signify a promising step toward a more inclusive and data-driven approach to policymaking.
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