National Statistics Day

About National Statistics Day:

• It is celebrated in recognition of the notable contributions made by Professor (late) Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis in the fields of statistics and economic planning.
• The main objective of celebrating Statistics Day is the creation of public awareness, especially among the younger generation, on the role and importance of statistics in socio-economic planning and policy formulation for the development of the country.
• Since 2007, Statistics Day has been celebrated every year with a theme of contemporary national importance. 
• The theme for Statistics Day, 2024 is "Use of data for decision-making".
• The concept of data-driven decision-making is important for making informed decisions in any field, and it is one of the pre-requisites for better understanding of statistical information, emanating from official statistics and for facilitating evidence-based decision making.

Who is Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis?

• He was born on 29 June 1893.
• He is known as the father of Indian statistics and was an Indian scientist and statistician. His role in India's post-independence economic planning is undeniable.
• He established the Indian Statistical Institute in 1931. It is one of the premier institutions for statistical research and training.
• He was awarded one of the highest civilian awards, the Padma Vibhushan from the Government of India for his contribution to science.