ITANAGAR, Jun 29: Joining the nationwide programme, the Directorate of Economics & Statistics (DES), GoAP celebrated National Statistics Day 2026 at the Directorate headquarters here today with enthusiasm and active participation of officers and staff.
National Statistics Day is observed every year on June 29 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Professor Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis, the pioneer of modern statistics in India, with the objective of creating awareness about the importance of statistics in socio-economic planning and evidence-based policymaking.
The theme for National Statistics Day 2026, as announced by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), Government of India, is ‘Unlocking the Potential of Administrative Data’. It highlights the growing significance of leveraging administrative records generated through government departments for producing timely, reliable, and high-quality statistics to support effective governance and informed decision-making.
Addressing the gathering, B Megu, Director Economics & Statistics, elaborated on the concept of administrative data, explaining that it refers to data routinely collected by government departments and agencies during the course of administering various programmes, schemes, and public services.
He emphasized that such data, when systematically compiled, validated, and integrated into the official statistical system, can serve as a valuable resource for planning, monitoring, and evaluating developmental initiatives.
The celebration also served as an occasion to recognize the dedicated service of Alberton Jirdo, Assistant Director Economics & Statistics, who retired after rendering 37 years of exemplary service to the Directorate.
A heartfelt farewell programme was organized in his honour, during which colleagues recalled his commitment, professionalism, and invaluable contributions to the growth and functioning of the department over nearly four decades.
Speaking on the occasion, officers and staff extended their heartfelt gratitude and best wishes to Jirdo for a healthy, happy, and fulfilling post-retirement life.
A memento and tokens of appreciation were presented to him, as a mark of respect and recognition for his long and distinguished service.
Further, the Directorate reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the State’s statistical system and promoting the effective use of quality data for the inclusive and sustainable development of Arunachal Pradesh.