Indian Chief Data Officers (CDOs) in the public sector are increasingly emphasising data governance, security, and compliance, according to a recent study by Qlik.

The study highlights a significant shift in reporting structures, with 58% of data executives reporting through security, risk, or compliance channels rather than traditional technology leads. Notably, 48% of public sector agencies now use governance titles for senior data executives.

Data governance takes precedence over innovation capabilities, with many organisations investing more in governance resources. This reflects a trend where data is perceived as a "risk to be managed" rather than an "opportunity to be exploited."

Across India, 71% of CDOs have data governance capabilities, 65% affirm data management capabilities, and 58% indicate having data analytics capabilities for policy formulation and service provision.

While strategies, maturity assessments, inventories, and governance boards are becoming priorities, innovation-focused initiatives are taking a backseat.

The research also shows a growing emphasis on compliance, with over 90% of organisations reporting governance frameworks in place. Notably, 63% of Indian organisations are maturing their frameworks, while 35% consider them mature.

Challenges in transitioning data to the public cloud are driven by modernisation efforts (65%), privacy/security concerns (64%), and a shortage of technical skills (56%).

Conducted by Omdia for Qlik, the study surveyed 326 senior data executives in India, Australia, and Singapore. The evolving role of CDOs and shifting business strategies are highlighted.

Geoff Thomas, Senior VP, APAC, Qlik, notes the rapid evolution of data leaders' roles, focusing on addressing risk over seizing opportunities.

While there's growing appreciation for CDO roles, this understanding doesn't always extend to entire organisations. Varun Babbar, MD, India and SAARC, Qlik, emphasises seamless data integration for service development.