The Role of Collaboration in ISS Training throughNSSTA

In recent months, the Indian Statistical Service (ISS) has undergone significant transformations with its 2023 batch completing their On-the-Job Training and moving forward to the 2025 cohort. This journey is marked by an intimate interaction between officers and senior officials from NSSTA, a key unit of MoSPI. This blog explores how these interactions have enhanced ISS professionals’ learning experiences and prepared them for future roles.

Introduction

NSSTA’s review meetings with ISS officers offer a unique opportunity for growth. These events foster collaboration, equipping officers with invaluable insights and practical knowledge. The Secretary of MoSPI emphasized the importance of data-driven decision-making, highlighting howISS trainees can learn from senior officials, ultimately contributing to effective governance.

2023 ISS Batch

The 2023 ISS batch met under the guidance of Dr. Saurabh Garg, a seasoned statistician and former Secretary. The meetups were held across various agencies, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the role of statistics in modern governance. Key takeaways included:

• Insights and Learnings: Officers shared rich field experiences, which they then integrated into their training.
• Challenges and Solutions: Issues encountered during training were addressed collaboratively, fostering problem-solving skills.

The Secretary underscored the critical importance of evidence-based decision-making, underscoring the vital role of statistics in governance.

2025 ISS Batch

Proceeding with the 2025 cohort, officers joined NSSTA on April 21st, bringing a new chapter to their training journey. The NSSTA provided an invaluable platform for interaction, offering a collaborative environment for learning and mentorship.

Key points from the 2025 batch included:

• New Learning Opportunities: The meetups allowed officers to observe and engage with senior officials in real-time, enhancing their understanding of the statistical challenges ahead.
• Mentorship Opportunities: This exposure was instrumental in developing leadership qualities and preparing future officers for leadership roles.

Conclusion

NSSTA’s meetings with ISS trainees underscored the positive impact of collaboration. These events not only enhanced professional skills but also fostered a culture of continuous learning and mentorship. The Secretary’s remarks about valuing contributions and measuring treasures highlight the enduring significance of statistics in governance, underscoring their importance for future challenges.

In conclusion, the interaction between officers and senior officials at NSSTA has been a transformative experience for ISS trainees, enriching their professional growth and preparedness for future roles within the Ministry.