As the battle to eradicate poverty rages on, the Chinese government is increasingly using big data and the internet to land that killer blow. And it is already starting to reap rewards.

In October last year, the State Council launched an online platform that aims to bolster efforts to improve the quality of rural residents' lives by boosting non-governmental involvement and attracting more private capital.

The project allows families in poor areas to crowdfund projects or sell goods, such as produce or handicrafts, while people nationwide can register to offer financial assistance one-on-one or donate unused food or household items.