30 July 2025 | New Delhi
In a major step towards making surveys more accurate and faster, the Government of India is using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) to improve national data collection. These technologies are helping the National Sample Survey (NSS) under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) to gather reliable and high-quality information from people and businesses across the country.
The NSS conducts various large-scale surveys that are used by the government to understand people’s income, education, health, jobs, and more. This data helps in planning government schemes and making important policy decisions. Now, with the help of AI and modern technology, these surveys are becoming smarter, quicker, and more accurate.
From Paper to Digital: Surveys Go High-Tech
Earlier, most surveys were done using pen and paper. Officials had to visit houses, write down responses, and then send them to the office for checking and analysis. This process used to take months or even years before the final report could be published.
Now, thanks to Computer-Assisted Personal Interviews (CAPI) and web-based applications, survey officials carry tablets or smartphones and directly enter the information into a digital system. These digital tools have built-in rules to check the answers for accuracy right at the time of entry. For example, if someone enters the wrong age or income that doesn’t make sense, the system alerts them immediately.
This real-time data collection helps reduce errors and speeds up the process. It also allows faster checking and quicker release of survey results. The use of digital platforms has cut down the time it takes to release reports by a large margin.
AI and ML Answer Field Questions Instantly
In some of the newer surveys like the CAPEX Survey and the Annual Survey of Unincorporated Sector Enterprises (ASUSE), Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning have been used to assist field staff. When surveyors face any doubts or issues while asking questions, AI tools can provide instant answers or help, making the process smoother.
This is like having a smart assistant that guides the surveyor in real-time, helping them collect the right data without delays. It improves the quality of data and also builds the confidence of the survey staff.
New Modules for Changing Needs
The government is also updating survey tools to match the changing needs of society. For example, in the ongoing ASUSE 2025 survey, a new section for construction-related businesses has been added in the digital system. Similarly, new parts were added in the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) to collect more detailed employment data.
The aim is to make surveys more flexible and capable of covering different sectors like telecom, education, health, etc., without starting an entirely new survey from scratch.
Short Surveys for Faster Insights
Along with big surveys, MoSPI has also launched short-duration surveys like the Comprehensive Modular Survey: Telecom and Education. These are quick surveys designed to provide high-frequency data meaning updates are given more often. This is useful in a fast-changing society where regular updates on issues like online education, mobile usage, or employment trends are needed.
Making Data Work for Everyone
The government believes that good data leads to good governance. By using AI and ML, the quality and speed of surveys have improved. These improvements help ministries, researchers, and even the public understand the ground reality in a better way. It also supports transparent decision-making and better use of public funds.
This information was shared in a written reply in Lok Sabha by Rao Inderjit Singh, the Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, and the Ministry of Planning, and Minister of State in the Ministry of Culture.
India is moving fast towards a digital future, and national surveys are not being left behind. With the use of Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and real-time digital tools, national data collection is becoming faster, more accurate, and more helpful for planning a better India. These smart methods ensure that every voice from every corner rural or urban is counted with care and technology.
Source: PIB
