The launch of the e-Sankhyiki portal marks a significant step in India’s ongoing effort to modernise official statistics and improve access to credible, machine-readable data. Positioned as an evolving national data platform, e-Sankhyiki reflects the government’s broader emphasis on evidence-based policymaking and interoperability across data systems.
What is the e-Sankhyiki portal?
e-Sankhyiki is a comprehensive digital platform developed under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) to host and disseminate official statistical data. Launched in June 2024, it currently contains more than 136 million records, covering 772 indicators and 18 statistical products across 9 thematic areas. The portal is designed to function as a central access point for high-quality government data in a structured and standardised manner.
Current coverage and institutional sources
At present, datasets from three Union Ministries and Departments have been onboarded:
- Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT)
- Ministry of Labour and Employment
- Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
In addition, data from the Reserve Bank of India has also been integrated. The government has clarified that the portal is still in an evolving phase, with further expansion in terms of datasets and participating institutions envisaged.
Usage trends and stage of evolution
Since the platform has not yet reached its final scope, no formal usage or impact assessment has been conducted. However, as an early indicator of interest, the portal has recorded over 25,000 visitors since March 2025. This reflects a gradual uptake by researchers, policymakers, and other data users as awareness grows.
Technology design and global best practices
The e-Sankhyiki portal has been built using open-source software and adheres to global best practices in statistical dissemination. A key feature is its use of Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), which allow data to be accessed programmatically. This ensures interoperability with other platforms, including the National Data and Analytics Platform (NDAP), enabling seamless data sharing across government systems and analytical tools.
Data dissemination, metadata, and interoperability
All datasets on e-Sankhyiki are accompanied by metadata, enabling users to understand definitions, sources, and methodological aspects. The API-based dissemination model aligns with modern open data principles, supporting reuse by academic institutions, think tanks, start-ups, and other public data portals without duplication of databases.
Cyber security and data integrity safeguards
Given the scale and sensitivity of official statistics, cyber security has been emphasised as a core design principle. The portal follows Government of India cyber security guidelines and has undergone periodic audits, including Vulnerability Assessment tests, before being placed in the public domain. As of now, no gaps in security or dissemination practices have been reported by the implementing ministry.
Why e-Sankhyiki matters for governance
By consolidating large volumes of official data on a single platform, e-Sankhyiki aims to reduce fragmentation in India’s statistical ecosystem. It supports transparency, improves ease of access, and strengthens the foundation for data-driven decision-making. Over time, its value will depend on the breadth of datasets onboarded, the frequency of updates, and how effectively it integrates with other national data initiatives.
What to note for Prelims?
- e-Sankhyiki launched in June 2024 by MoSPI.
- Hosts over 136 million records and 772 indicators.
- Uses API-based data dissemination.
- Datasets currently from DPIIT, Labour Ministry, Health Ministry, and RBI.
- Interoperable with NDAP.
What to note for Mains?
- Role of unified data platforms in evidence-based policymaking.
- Importance of interoperability and open data standards.
- Challenges of data integration across ministries.
- Cyber security and governance of large public data systems.
- Link between statistical capacity and quality of governance.
