Every year on June 29, India celebrates Statistics Day to commemorate the birth anniversary of Professor Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis, widely regarded as the Father of Indian Statistics. This observance, initiated in 2007 by the Government of India, highlights the critical role of statistics in shaping public policy, economic planning, and evidence-based governance.
Why It Matters
Statistics Day serves as a reminder of how data drives decisions in sectors like health, education, agriculture, and employment. It promotes statistical literacy, especially among youth, and encourages the use of data for inclusive and sustainable development.
2025 Theme: 75 Years of National Sample Survey
This year’s theme celebrates the 75th anniversary of the National Sample Survey (NSS), a cornerstone of India’s statistical infrastructure. The NSS has been instrumental in collecting reliable socio-economic data that informs government programs and policy frameworks.
Legacy of P.C. Mahalanobis
Born in 1893, Mahalanobis pioneered the Mahalanobis distance, founded the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) in 1931, and played a key role in India’s Second Five-Year Plan. His work laid the foundation for modern statistical systems in India, including the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) and Central Statistical Organisation (CSO).
Celebrations and Initiatives
The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) marks the day with:
- Release of key reports like Nutritional Intake in India and SDG Progress Report 2025
- Launch of the GoIStat app for easier access to official data
- Seminars, workshops, and student competitions across institutions
