Indian statistical institute celebrates 59th convocation with Prof. Abhijit Banerjee as chief guest

Indian statistical institute celebrates 59th convocation with Prof. Abhijit Banerjee as chief guest

The Indian Statistical Institute (ISI), a premier institution for statistical research and education, held its 59th Convocation Ceremony at its Delhi Center on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone for its graduates. The event, presided over by Prof. Sankar Kumar Pal, President of ISI, featured Dr. Saurabh Garg, IAS, Secretary of the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), as the special guest, and Nobel Laureate Prof. Abhijit Banerjee as the Chief Guest, who delivered the Convocation Address.

The ceremony began with an academic procession followed by a Vedic hymn sung by ISI staff and students. Prof. Pal, in his opening address, emphasized the immense academic value of the degrees awarded and the responsibility students now bear. He urged the graduates to use their knowledge to benefit society, particularly the less privileged.

Prof. Sanghamitra Bandyopadhyay, Director of ISI, presented the Annual Review, detailing the Institute’s academic achievements and progress. Dr. Saurabh Garg spoke about the importance of official statistics in evidence-based policymaking and its role in realizing India’s vision of becoming a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047. He also highlighted the Ministry’s efforts in improving data dissemination and reforms in sample surveys.

Prof. Abhijit Banerjee, in his address, reflected on the global impact of statistical sciences and the importance of rigorous research in shaping policy. He encouraged the graduates to use their learning to create opportunities and improve society.

The event culminated in the award of degrees and diplomas, with prizes and medals presented for outstanding academic performance. Prof. Biswabrata Pradhan, Dean of Studies at ISI, delivered the Vote of Thanks.

This year, 470 students from various programs, including Ph.D., M.Tech., M.Stat., M.Math., B.Stat., and others, were awarded their degrees.

Founded in 1931 by Prof. P. C. Mahalanobis, ISI is a globally renowned institution known for its contributions to statistics, economics, mathematics, and computer science. The Delhi Center, celebrating its Golden Jubilee, has become a hub for the Institute’s academic programs and research activities in Northern India. This year’s convocation marks the first time the ceremony has been held outside ISI’s Kolkata campus.

ISI is known for its expertise in data science, machine learning, economics, and policy research. It has been a crucial player in shaping national policies and advancing statistical infrastructure in India. The Delhi Center, which started offering postgraduate programs and research opportunities in 1974, now offers a new Bachelor in Statistical Data Science (BSDS) program alongside its other academic courses.