### National Statistics Day 2024: Date, Theme, History, and Significance
**Date:**
National Statistics Day is celebrated annually on June 29th. In 2024, it will be observed on Saturday, June 29th.
**Theme:**
Each year, National Statistics Day is observed with a specific theme to highlight an important aspect of statistical application. While the official theme for 2024 has not been announced yet by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), it typically focuses on areas of national importance. Past themes have included topics such as "Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)," "Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare," and "Social Development." Potential themes for 2024 might include:
- **Digital Transformation in Statistics:** Emphasizing the role of digital tools and technologies in data collection, analysis, and dissemination.
- **Health and Well-being:** Focusing on the importance of statistical data in improving public health policies and outcomes.
- **Climate Change and Environment:** Highlighting the use of statistics in addressing climate change and promoting environmental sustainability.
**History:**
National Statistics Day was established by the Government of India in 2007 to honor the birth anniversary of Professor Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis, born on June 29, 1893. Professor Mahalanobis is celebrated as the Father of Indian Statistics for his groundbreaking work in the field. He founded the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) in 1931 and developed the Mahalanobis distance, a significant statistical measure used in multivariate analysis. His contributions were pivotal in the establishment of large-scale sample surveys and played a key role in the formulation of India's Second Five-Year Plan, which emphasized industrialization and the use of statistical methods for economic planning.
**Significance:**
- **Tribute to P.C. Mahalanobis:** National Statistics Day commemorates the life and achievements of Professor Mahalanobis, recognizing his foundational role in the advancement of statistical science in India.
- **Raising Awareness:** The observance aims to raise public awareness about the importance of statistics in various sectors such as economics, health, agriculture, and social development.
- **Promoting Statistical Literacy:** It encourages statistical literacy among the general public and highlights the need for a skilled workforce in the field of statistics.
- **Informed Decision-Making:** Emphasizes the critical role of statistics in informed policy-making and effective governance, promoting the use of statistical data and methods in decision-making processes.
- **Research and Development:** Underlines the importance of statistical research and its impact on scientific discoveries and technological advancements, fueling innovation and progress.
### Conclusion
National Statistics Day 2024 is a significant observance that highlights the vital role of statistics in various aspects of society. It honors the legacy of Professor Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis, the Father of Indian Statistics, and promotes the use of statistical methods for informed decision-making, policy formulation, and socio-economic development. By raising awareness and encouraging statistical literacy, the day aims to enhance the understanding and application of statistics for the betterment of society.