ADDRESS BY THE HON’BLE PRESIDENT OF INDIA SMT. DROUPADI MURMU ON THE OCCASION OF CALL-ON BY THE PROBATIONERS OF INDIAN STATISTICAL SERVICE

Dear probationers of Indian Statistical Service,

I congratulate you all for your selection in this prestigious service through a tough competitive examination. This service will give you immense opportunities to serve the country in various capacities during your long career. I am confident that you will make remarkable contribution in the progress of the people by performing your best in every situation.

Statistical tools and quantitative techniques play a significant role in effective governance by providing empirical foundation for policy decisions. Statistics were used even in ancient civilizations, when rulers used basic census data for taxation purposes. In modern times, statistics enable the formulation of policies by reflecting different aspects of a country’s status. Governments rely on national statistical systems to collect data on health, education, population size, and employment, among others, which form the basis for policy-making. Statistical analysis is a tool to bring in transparency and accountability in governance. Statistics is not only the backbone of efficient governance but also a tool for socio-economic development.

Dear probationers,

You will be playing a key role in compiling official statistics for the use of government and various organizations as well as for the information of citizens. It is your duty to collect accurate data, which can be the foundation for sound and objective decisions. Government needs data to formulate, implement, and monitor policies as well as for policy review and impact assessment. The citizens need data for impartial understanding and assessment of government schemes and programmes. Your job requires high proficiency in statistical methods, which you would use to provide solutions to data and information needs of the country.

I am told that you are responsible for preparing National Accounts, Consumer Price Index, Index of Industrial Production and other such important indices for measuring various aspects of the health of economy. You will also develop and analyze various social statistics on population, human development, employment and social justice; multi- domain statistics on poverty and persons with disabilities; and indicators related to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These authentic data act as key instruments for measuring the economic development and making effective policies. Statistics are like diagnostic tools for policy makers. The accuracy of diagnostic data is critical for effective intervention.

I urge you all to be sensitive towards the needs of common people especially the poor and underprivileged, while collecting data. Every bit of data that you collect, will be processed, analysed and ultimately used for addressing the needs of the people and helping them achieve their dreams. The development of various sections of the society will lead to greater prosperity of the country. For example, authentic data in the fields of health and education will serve as the basis for monitoring literacy rates, school enrolment ratios, health infrastructure, and prevalence of diseases.

Dear probationers,

I would like to emphasize on the urgent need to learn and utilize latest and advanced technologies in your job. The growing use of generative AI, augmented reality, predictive analysis and machine learning worldwide, has made it imperative for you all to make use of these new technologies effectively.

Research is another important area that needs to be focused upon by the Indian Statistical Service officers. The research conducted by you all will be crucial for developing policies that can respond to the dynamic needs of the country. Through rigorous statistical modeling, and forecasting techniques, you can contribute to long-term planning in sectors like agriculture, industry, and services. By studying patterns in employment, productivity, or income inequality, you can help policymakers generate targeted solutions.

Dear probationers,

As India moves towards achieving inclusive and sustainable development, statistical research will play a greater role in monitoring environmental impacts and climate change. The research conducted by ISS officers to track indicators related to energy consumption and carbon emissions, can enable India to create data-driven strategies for sustainable development and environmental conservation. These strategies will further help India in meeting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

I am confident that during India’s journey to become a global economic powerhouse, you will play an important role in driving informed decision- making, promoting transparency, and fostering sustainable growth across all sectors of the economy.

I extend my best wishes to you all for a bright future.

Thank you!
Jai Hind!
Jai Bharat!