National Statistics Day is observed annually in India on June 29 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis, recognised as the father of Indian statistics.
Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis, an esteemed Indian scientist and statistician, is renowned for pioneering the Mahalanobis distance and statistical measure. His significant contributions to statistics and economic planning in India are widely acknowledged.
Mahalanobis played a crucial role as a member of India’s inaugural planning commission and was instrumental in establishing the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) in 1931. His exceptional contributions to science were honoured with the Padma Vibhushan, one of India’s highest civilian awards.
SIGNIFICANCE
It’s important to distinguish National Statistics Day from World Statistics Day, an observance designated by the United Nations every five years on October 20. While World Statistics Day is a global initiative, National Statistics Day specifically celebrates the statistician community in India, highlighting their significant contributions.
HISTORY
In 2007, the Government of India officially declared June 29th as National Statistics Day to commemorate Mahalanobis’ birth anniversary and recognise his pivotal role in the development of statistics and economic planning. Since its inception, National Statistics Day has become an annual event aimed at emphasising the critical importance of statistics in national development.
This day not only pays homage to Mahalanobis’ achievements but also aims to foster a culture of excellence in statistics. It seeks to raise awareness among the youth about the essential role of statistics in shaping strategic planning, fostering economic growth, and informing policymaking in India.
Source Agencies
