BEIJING, March 9 -- China will use big data and on-the-spot investigation to identify people in difficulties and ensure they receive assistance in a timely manner, Minister of Civil Affairs Lu Zhiyuan told a press conference on Sunday.

The country will continue to improve its social assistance system, Lu told a press conference on the sidelines of the ongoing session of the national legislature.

Assistance includes basic livelihood, medical care, education, housing, employment, disaster relief and emergency support, according to an official guideline.

China will upgrade its current civil affairs services with a focus on material aid, aiming to develop a more comprehensive model that includes material support, social services and psychological care, Lu said.