Srinagar, Oct 17 (KNS): Secretary, Planning, Development and Monitoring Department, Dr Owais Ahmad, on Saturday reviewed the functioning and progress of key assignments of the Directorate of Economics and Statistics, stressing the need for reliable data, efficient operations and timely completion of departmental tasks.

The review meeting was held at the Directorate’s office in Bemina and was attended by Director General, Economics and Statistics, Ashu Gupta, along with Regional Directors, Joint Directors, Deputy Directors and other senior officers.

During the meeting, the Secretary assessed the Directorate’s activities, achievements and progress on ongoing assignments. He emphasised that the department must continue to serve as a key source of statistical information and knowledge for the government.

Owais Ahmad highlighted the department’s role in generating reliable, timely and evidence-based statistical information for policy formulation, development planning and informed decision-making. He said accurate data was essential for assessing development outcomes, identifying emerging priorities and ensuring effective governance.

He called for strengthening the statistical framework of Jammu and Kashmir to support evidence-based planning, implementation of developmental programmes and monitoring of socio-economic progress.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

The Secretary stressed the need to improve institutional mechanisms for data collection, compilation, validation and analysis, while maintaining high standards of accuracy, consistency and transparency in official statistical outputs.

He also directed officers to ensure the timely completion of departmental assignments and adopt a result-oriented approach focused on efficiency, accountability and adherence to prescribed timelines. He called for regular monitoring of ongoing activities and better coordination among the Directorate, regional offices and stakeholder departments.

Emphasising the growing importance of data-driven governance, Owais Ahmad called for greater use of modern technology and stronger digital systems to streamline statistical operations, reduce procedural delays and improve access to official data.

During the meeting, Director General Ashu Gupta delivered a detailed presentation on the Directorate’s mandate and functioning, assignments entrusted to it, progress achieved across various areas and the status of ongoing activities.(KNS)