Bihar Govt

State Transformation Cell

Department of Planning and Development
Government of Bihar

Department Banner

The Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) and Data Analytics Unit under the State Support Mission (SSM) serves as a critical pillar for strengthening evidence-based planning, real-time monitoring, and outcome-driven governance in the state.

Our vision is to be an institution recognized globally for its technical competence and credibility in the field of monitoring and evaluation by helping government institutions improve and sustain their development outcomes. Our mission is to institutionalize application and use of monitoring and evaluation at all levels of government policy and programs and help improve the efficiency, effectiveness, equity, sustainability, and achievement of results.

The Unit is designed to transform traditional programme monitoring into a dynamic, data-driven system, enabling governments to track progress, identify gaps, and make informed policy decisions. Broadly, its functions can be categorized into
A. Monitoring,
B. Evaluation, and
C. Strategic Initiatives encompassing partnerships and capacity buildin

The Unit functions as a centralised analytical and monitoring hub, Government of Bihar across the policy lifecycle, from planning to implementation to evaluation.

1. Strengthening Monitoring System

The Unit develops robust monitoring frameworks aligned with State priorities and defines clear Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for schemes and programmes to ensure effective tracking of progress. It enables real-time monitoring of programme implementation through integrated systems and supports the creation of dynamic dashboards and strategy room, thereby equipping decision-makers with timely insights for informed and evidence-based governance.

2. Evaluation for Better Outcomes

The Unit undertakes the design and execution of impact evaluations and outcome assessments to measure the effectiveness of programmes and initiatives Emphasizing a learning-based approach, the Unit promotes continuous improvement by deriving insights from evaluations and translating them into actionable recommendations to enhance programme delivery and overall outcomes.

3. Data Analytics and Insights Generation

The Unit analyses large and complex datasets to identify key trends, patterns, and gaps across sectors, enabling a deeper understanding of development challenges and opportunities. It leverages advanced tools for predictive and diagnostic analytics to generate forward-looking insights. Additionally, the Unit supports in the development of comprehensive sectoral and cross-sectoral analytical reports to guide strategic planning and programme implementation.

4. Capacity Building and Institutional Strengthening

The M&E Competency Framework and Curriculum aim to build a structured and comprehensive approach to strengthening monitoring and evaluation capacities within the State. It focuses on defining core competencies, developing standardized training modules, and equipping officials with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively design, implement, and utilize M&E systems for improved governance and decision-making.

The Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) and Data Analytics Unit is headed by Team Lead, and Sector Expert.

Ms. Astha Joshi

Sector Expert - Monitoring and Evaluation and Data Analytics Unit

Astha works as a sector expert in the monitoring, evaluation, and data analytics team of the State Support Mission. She is actively engaged in policy advocacy and reform planning within Bihar’s urban health ecosystem, including work aligned with the 15th and 16th Finance Commissions. Her experience includes co-authoring national-level research and policy outputs on decentralisation, urban primary healthcare, gender-responsive cities, and rural-urban transition, alongside designing capacity-building modules for government platforms such as iGOT. Previously, she worked closely with district administrations in Jharkhand through contributing to governance innovations such as the Deoghar Mart, which received the Indian Express Excellence in Governance Award 2023. With a strong academic foundation in urban policy and governance from TISS Mumbai and an early career in Wipro Technologies for IT systems and project management across India and other countries in the Asia-Pacific region, she brings a blend of technical, analytical, and governance expertise, particularly in outcome-based planning, monitoring and evaluation, and district-level development.

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