Mahalanobis: Father of Indian Statistics

Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis is often referred to as the father of Indian Statistics, a title that reflects his monumental contributions to the field. Born on June 29, 1893, in Calcutta (now Kolkata), Mahalanobis’s work has had a lasting impact on statistical theory and practice in India. His role as a member of the first Planning Commission of independent India highlights his influence on national policy. In recognition of his contributions, his birth anniversary is celebrated as National Statistics Day every year since 2006.

Early Life and Education

Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis was born into an academically inclined family that valued education. He pursued his early education in Calcutta before moving to England to study at the University of Cambridge. At Cambridge, he was exposed to the then-emerging field of statistics, which would become the focus of his professional life.

Contributions to Statistics

Mahalanobis’s most notable contribution to statistics is the development of the Mahalanobis distance. This measure is critical for understanding the similarity between sets of data, particularly in multivariate analysis. The Mahalanobis distance helps in calculating the distance between a point and a distribution, taking into account the correlations of the data set and is widely used in fields like cluster analysis and classification.

Role in India’s Planning Commission

After India gained independence in 1947, Mahalanobis was appointed as a member of the Planning Commission. This body was responsible for creating strategies for economic development and guiding resource allocation in the nascent nation. Mahalanobis’s statistical expertise was crucial in formulating plans that aimed to improve the country’s socio-economic status.

National Sample Survey and Central Statistical Organisation

Understanding the importance of reliable data for planning and policy-making, Mahalanobis founded the National Sample Survey (NSS) in 1950. The NSS was established with the aim of conducting regular socio-economic surveys across India, providing a wealth of data to inform government decisions. Following this, in 1951, he also established the Central Statistical Organisation (CSO), which played a pivotal role in coordinating statistical activities and setting standards across the country.

Legacy and National Statistics Day

The legacy of Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis in the field of statistics is profound. In honor of his significant contributions, the Government of India designated June 29 as National Statistics Day. This day is not only a tribute to Mahalanobis but also serves to raise public awareness about the importance of statistics in socio-economic planning and policy formulation.

The impact of Mahalanobis’s work extends beyond his lifetime, influencing countless statisticians and researchers. His methodologies and frameworks continue to be foundational in the analysis of complex data across various disciplines. As the father of Indian Statistics, Mahalanobis’s pioneering efforts have indelibly shaped the landscape of statistical application and education in India.