The National Statistical Office (NSO), in collaboration with the Ministry of Education (MoE), has launched an ambitious innovation drive — “Statathon – A Data Journey Towards Viksit Bharat.” This national-level Grand Challenge aims to unlock the potential of emerging technologies in the field of data science and official statistics.
Fostering Innovation in Official Statistics
Launched on July 15, 2025, in New Delhi, the initiative is a part of MoSPI’s Data Innovation Lab (DI Lab). It commemorates 75 years of the National Sample Survey (NSS) and seeks to revolutionize how India collects, processes, and disseminates statistical data.
Dr. Saurabh Garg, Secretary of MoSPI, unveiled the five key problem statements at the event, underscoring the need to integrate AI, NLP, and digital tools into India’s data architecture.
Challenge Focus: Five Real-World Problem Statements
The Statathon challenge invites students, startups, and data innovators to submit ideas for five cutting-edge use cases that span the full data lifecycle:
- API Gateway for Survey Datasets: Build a secure, privacy-compliant API for retrieving NSS data using SQL.
- AI-Powered Smart Survey Tool: Design a multilingual, mobile-first survey app for real-time digital data collection.
- AI-Enhanced Application for Automated Data Processing: Create AI modules for automatic data validation, statistical analysis, and report generation.
- Semantic Search for NCO Codes: Use Gen AI and NLP to develop an intuitive semantic search for India’s occupational classification.
- Enhancing Data Anonymisation Practices: Improve data privacy through a robust anonymisation toolkit.
Why Statathon Matters for Viksit Bharat
This initiative reflects the Government of India’s vision for a Viksit Bharat (Developed India). By inviting youth and tech innovators to co-create solutions, Statathon promotes collaborative innovation and digital public goods.
Solutions developed through this challenge could directly influence India’s official statistics ecosystem — a critical backbone for policy-making, budgeting, and governance.
Two-Phase Evaluation with ₹50,000 Grants
Participants can register and submit their ideas on the official Statathon Portal before the deadline (one month from launch).
The evaluation will happen in two structured phases:
- Phase 1: 50 shortlisted teams will receive expert mentorship from government and industry professionals.
- Phase 2: 25 finalists will get ₹50,000 in financial support and continue solution development with guided mentorship.
The Grand Finale will award ₹1,00,000 to winners in each problem category. Runners-up will receive ₹50,000.
Government and Academic Leaders Show Strong Support
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from over 300 attendees, including senior MoSPI and MoE officials, startups, researchers, and educators.
Shri R. Rajesh, Additional DG, MoSPI, called for widespread student and researcher engagement. Dr. Abhay Jere, MoE’s Chief Innovation Officer, praised the joint effort, calling it a model for future government-academic collaboration.
Prof. T.G. Sitharam, Chairman, AICTE, highlighted the importance of data-driven policies and praised Statathon’s inclusive vision.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Data Leaders
Dr. Garg emphasized how this challenge aligns with MoSPI’s modernization goals. He encouraged India’s youth to utilize mentorship opportunities and be part of shaping India’s digital data future.
By opening up national-level datasets and real policy challenges to young minds, the initiative lays the foundation for an inclusive, tech-savvy, and data-smart India.
How to Join the Statathon Movement
If you are a data scientist, student, startup, or software developer passionate about public data systems, this is your moment.
Visit https://gc.mic.gov.in/home to register your team, review the problem statements, and begin your journey toward contributing to a Viksit Bharat.
Don’t miss the opportunity to make a real impact while gaining mentorship, recognition, and financial support.
