Mumbai, 02nd July, 2024
National Sample Survey Office (Field Operation Division), Regional Office Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, celebrated National Statistics Day on 29th June 2024 at Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. This day marks the birth anniversary of the renowned statistician and economic planner, Prof. Prashant Chandra Mahalanobis, recognized for his profound contributions to statistics and economic planning in India.
The theme for National Statistics Day 2024 was “Use of Data in Decision Making,” emphasizing the critical role of statistical data in governmental projects and policies. Prof. Mahalanobis, born on June 29, 1893, in Kolkata, was a pivotal figure in India’s statistical landscape. He played a crucial role in the nation’s development as the founder of the Indian Statistical Institute, architect of the Second Five-Year Plan, and the creator of the “Mahalanobis Distance” formula. His initiatives in industrial growth and employment schemes have left an indelible mark on India’s socio-economic fabric.
During the inaugural address, Shri Jayaprakash Honrao underscored the significance of statistical insights in implementing effective governmental projects. The presidential speech was delivered by Prof. M.D. Shirsat, Dean, Faculty of Science and Technology, focusing on the enduring legacy of Prof. Mahalanobis and his impact on Indian statistics.
In his keynote address, Head of the Statistics Department at Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University, Dr. S. V. Kawale, elaborated on the application of statistics in social and economic planning, emphasizing its role in policy formulation. The event also included a spirited quiz competition for students, aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of statistical concepts among the next generation of statisticians.
In his closing remarks, Senior Statistical Officer Shri Vipin Prakash, expressed gratitude to all participating institutions, students, and media personnel for their enthusiastic support. He acknowledged the pivotal role of academia in advancing statistical research and education in the region.
The event aimed to raise awareness, particularly among the youth, about the pivotal role of statistics in social and economic policymaking.
Students and faculty from the Department of Statistics and Mathematics from esteemed institutions including Deogiri College, Vivekanand College, and Vasantrao Naik College, actively participated in the event that featured insightful speeches and discussions highlighting the importance of statistics in shaping national policies.
Special programs were also organized by the Sub-Regional Office, Nashik at K.T.H.M. College, Nashik, and by the Sub-Regional Office, Nanded at Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose College, Nanded.
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DL/PK
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