Celebrating National Statistics Day 2023: Recognizing the Power of Data and its Impact on Society

National Statistics Day is an annual observance in India that commemorates the birth anniversary of Professor Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis, a prominent statistician and economist. Celebrated on 29th June each year, National Statistics Day highlights the vital role of statistics in informing decision-making, policy formulation, and socio-economic development.

Professor Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis, often referred to as the father of modern statistics in India, made significant contributions to statistical theory and its practical applications. He played a crucial role in shaping India's statistical system and establishing the Indian Statistical Institute, a premier institution dedicated to statistical research and education.

National Statistics Day serves as an occasion to honor Professor Mahalanobis's pioneering work and acknowledge the contributions of statisticians and data scientists in various domains. It aims to raise awareness about the importance of reliable and accurate statistical data for evidence-based decision-making.

On this day, the government, statistical organizations, educational institutions, and experts in the field of statistics organize various events and activities. These include seminars, workshops, panel discussions, competitions, and exhibitions that promote statistical literacy, highlight the significance of data-driven approaches, and showcase the applications of statistics in diverse sectors such as economics, social sciences, healthcare, governance, and more.

When was the first National Statistics Day celebrated in India?

The first National Statistics Day was celebrated in India on 29th June 2007. The celebration of National Statistics Day was initiated by the Government of India to commemorate the birth anniversary of Professor Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis, the renowned statistician and economist who made significant contributions to the field of statistics in India. Since then, 29th June has been observed as National Statistics Day each year to recognize the importance of statistics in decision-making and to promote statistical literacy and awareness in the country.

What is the theme for National Statistics Day 2023?

This year's theme for Statistics Day is "Alignment of State Indicator Framework for Monitoring Sustainable Development Goals', the Union Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation said in a statement Wednesday.

Who is the father of statistics in India?

Prof. Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis is also known as the father of Indian Statistics. He was a physicist by training, a statistician by instinct and a planner by conviction.

Why National Statistics Day is celebrated?

National Statistics Day is celebrated to commemorate the birth anniversary of the eminent statistician, Professor Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis. It is observed on 29th June every year in India. The day is dedicated to recognizing the significance of statistics in various fields and promoting the importance of accurate and reliable data in decision-making processes.

The celebration of National Statistics Day aims to raise awareness about the role of statistics in shaping policies, planning, and development. Statistics play a crucial role in providing valuable insights, analyzing trends, measuring progress, and making informed decisions in various sectors such as economics, social sciences, governance, healthcare, education, and more.

Professor Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis, widely regarded as the father of modern statistics in India, made significant contributions to the field. He introduced statistical methods for sampling and laid the foundation for the Indian Statistical Institute, which has been instrumental in advancing statistical research and applications in the country.

By observing National Statistics Day, the government, statistical organizations, educational institutions, and experts in the field aim to promote the understanding and utilization of statistics for evidence-based decision-making. It serves as an occasion to acknowledge the contributions of statisticians and data scientists and encourage the use of statistical tools and techniques for data-driven policies and development initiatives.

“Statistics Day” To be Celebrated On June 29, 2023

The Government of India has established an annual celebration called "Statistics Day" on the 29th of June to honor the remarkable contributions of the late Professor Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis in the fields of statistics and economic planning. This special day aims to raise public awareness, especially among the younger generation, about the significant role and importance of statistics in socio-economic planning and policy formulation, drawing inspiration from Professor Mahalanobis.

This year, the main event for Statistics Day 2023 will take place at the Scope Convention Centre, located in Scope Complex, Lodhi Road, New Delhi. The event will be graced by Rao Inderjit Singh, the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), Ministry of Planning, and Minister of State for the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, as the Chief Guest. Notable figures such as Prof. Rajeeva Laxman Karandikar, Chairman of the National Statistical Commission (NSC), Dr. G. P. Samanta, the Chief Statistician of India and Secretary of MoSPI, along with other dignitaries, are scheduled to address the participants. Additionally, senior officials from Central Ministries/Departments, representatives from States/Union Territories, and international organizations are also expected to attend.

Each year, Statistics Day focuses on a theme that holds contemporary national importance. For Statistics Day 2023, the theme chosen is "Alignment of State Indicator Framework with National Indicator Framework for Monitoring Sustainable Development Goals."

During the technical session of the event, Ministry officers will deliver a concise presentation on the theme, followed by speeches from experts in the field.

Furthermore, the winners of the "On the Spot Essay Writing Competition 2023" for Post Graduate Students, organized by MoSPI, will be honored during the event.