The Government of India has approved the VISTAR Scheme (Viksit Bharat Initiative for Statistical Transformation, Analytics & Research) to modernise the country’s official statistical system. Approved by the Union Cabinet on 4 November 2026, the scheme has a total financial outlay of ₹4,371.10 crore for the period 2026-27 to 2030-31. It aims to improve data collection, processing, analysis and dissemination through digital technologies, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML). The initiative will make official statistics more accurate, timely and accessible, supporting evidence-based policymaking and India’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
VISTAR Scheme 2026: Key Highlights
| Particulars | Details |
| Full Form | Viksit Bharat Initiative for Statistical Transformation, Analytics & Research |
| Scheme | VISTAR |
| Approved Date | 4 November 2026 |
| Financial Outlay | ₹4,371.10 crore |
| Implementation Period | 2026-27 to 2030-31 |
| Approved By | Union Cabinet |
| Implementing Ministry | Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation |
| Main Objective | Modernisation of India’s statistical system |
What Is the VISTAR Scheme?
VISTAR is a Central Sector Scheme designed to transform India’s official statistical ecosystem through technology, research and improved data management.
The scheme focuses on making government statistics more reliable, detailed and available within a shorter time. It will introduce modern digital tools into traditional statistical operations and strengthen coordination between the Centre, States and Union Territories.
The initiative will also support the development of integrated datasets to improve the quality of economic and social information used in government planning.
Main Objectives of VISTAR
- Real-Time Data Collection: Improve the speed and efficiency of collecting official statistics.
- Digital Transformation: Introduce modern digital platforms into statistical operations.
- AI Integration: Use Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning for data processing and analysis.
- Better Policymaking: Provide reliable information for evidence-based government decisions.
- Research and Innovation: Encourage statistical research and methodological improvements.
- State-Level Development: Strengthen statistical infrastructure across States and Union Territories.
Three Major Components of the VISTAR Scheme
The scheme focuses on three major components to improve India’s statistical infrastructure.
1. Comprehensive Statistical Operations and Strengthening of Ecosystem
This component aims to modernise statistical activities through technology, research and improved survey systems.
- MoSPI plans to conduct 59 surveys during the 16th Finance Commission cycle.
- AI and ML will support data processing, validation and analysis.
- Digital platforms will improve survey execution and data dissemination.
- Alternative data sources, including mobile phone, scanner and e-commerce data, will complement traditional surveys.
- New statistical indicators will help measure economic activities more effectively.
2. Support for Statistical Strengthening (SSS)
This component focuses on improving the statistical capabilities of State and Union Territory governments.
Under the redesigned SSS 2.0 framework, financial assistance will be linked to measurable outcomes.
Its major focus areas include:
- Strengthening state-level statistical departments.
- Improving district-level economic estimates.
- Developing State and District Gross Domestic Product (GDP) estimates.
- Improving data collection and processing infrastructure.
- Developing better economic statistics for million-plus cities.
3. Economic Census (EC)
Under this component, the government will conduct the 8th Economic Census in collaboration with State and Union Territory governments.
The Economic Census will collect information about non-farm economic establishments and their workers.
Its important features include:
- Coverage up to Gram Panchayat and Ward levels.
- Identification of economic establishments.
- Collection of employment-related information.
- Development of a baseline for the National Statistical Business Register (SBR).
- Better understanding of India’s business and unorganised sectors.
Role of Artificial Intelligence in the VISTAR Scheme
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning will play an important role in transforming India’s statistical system.
Their applications will include:
- Data Validation: Identifying errors and inconsistencies in datasets.
- Data Processing: Reducing manual work in handling large volumes of information.
- Data Analysis: Identifying economic and social trends.
- Data Integration: Improving coordination between different government datasets.
- Policy Planning: Supporting government decisions through timely and reliable information.
Significance of the VISTAR Scheme for India
The VISTAR Scheme is an important step towards developing a technology-driven statistical ecosystem.
- Better Governance: Reliable statistics will support evidence-based policymaking.
- Economic Planning: Improved economic data will help assess India’s economic performance.
- Employment Analysis: Detailed surveys will provide better information about employment and economic activities.
- Digital India: The scheme will strengthen the use of digital technologies in government operations.
- State Development: Improved district-level statistics will support local planning.
- Viksit Bharat 2047: A modern statistical system will contribute to India’s long-term development goals.
