National Statistics Day 2025, History, Significance, Legacy of PC Mahalanobis

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National Statistics Day 2025 Theme

National Staticstics Day 2025 theme is “75 Years of National Sample Survey”, marking the significant contribution of the National Sample Survey in providing reliable and timely statistical data that supports evidence-based decision-making and governance in India

History of National Statistics Day 

The idea to celebrate Statistics Day was conceived in 2007 by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI). The date, June 29, was chosen to commemorate PC Mahalanobis’s birthday. He is one of India’s greatest statisticians. The first official celebration took place in 2007. 

Since then, National Statistics Day has been celebrated every year. The day was established with a dual purpose: to honor the legacy of Prof. P.C. Mahalanobis and to raise public awareness about the importance of statistics in everyday life. Over the years, the celebration has grown significantly.

What began as an event mainly involving government statisticians has now expanded to include students, educators, NGOs, and the media. Today, seminars, workshops, and quiz contests are regularly organized, along with statistics fairs and exhibitions. These activities not only engage a wider audience but also help spark curiosity and interest in young minds toward statistics.

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About Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis

Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis was a pioneer in modern statistics in India. Born in Calcutta (now Kolkata), he graduated from Presidency College. He later studied at Cambridge University. There, he met influential scientists who shaped his thinking. In 1949, Mahalanobis founded the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) in Kolkata. 

His legacy lives on not just through techniques, but also through institutions and policies he helped create. That is why National Statistics Day celebrates his birthday and honors his vision.

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Applications of Statistics 

Statistics is useful in many areas:

• Healthcare: Data tracks disease trends, vaccination impact, and resource use.

• Economy: GDP forecasting, inflation monitoring, and employment surveys depend on strong statistical systems.

• Climate & Environment: Analysis of rainfall, pollution, crop yields, and more help guide sustainable planning.

• Education: Student success rates, institution ratings, and enrollment trends are all measured and monitored.

• Governance: Open data platforms empower citizens to hold institutions accountable.

National Statistics Day reminds us that behind every report, chart, and number, there is effort. 

Significance of National Statistics Day 2025

National Statistics Day 2025 is crucial because of its role in:

• Raising Data Awareness: The core aim is to make citizens aware that data matters. Whether it’s government budgeting, health policy, or environmental planning, data informs better decisions. 

• Encouraging Data Literacy: The day inspires schools and universities to host statistics literacy programs. These activities help them bring abstract data to life and understand how a statistic becomes knowledge.

• Honoring Statisticians: It recognizes the often-hidden efforts of statisticians. From census officers in villages to data analysts in urban offices, their work shapes governance. 

• Spotlight on Policy Impact: Every year, stakeholders discuss how statistics guide national initiatives. Whether it’s vaccine rollout data, poverty surveys, or climate records, this day shows how measurement leads to action.

• Celebrating Mahalanobis’s Legacy: Mahalanobis sparked a data revolution in India. The day reminds us how one person’s dedication to accurate measures can shape a nation’s future.

In summary, National Statistics Day 2025 highlights the value of data in shaping India’s future. By celebrating PC Mahalanobis and promoting statistical literacy, we honor our past and prepare for tomorrow.

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