The academic rationale behind establishing the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) in India was to create a dedicated centre for advanced study, research, and training in statistics, mathematics, and related quantitative disciplines. Founded in 1931 by P. C. Mahalanobis, ISI emerged from the recognition that scientific planning, economic analysis, and policy formulation require rigorous statistical methods and reliable data analysis. Academically, ISI was conceived as a multidisciplinary institution where statistics would serve as a foundational tool across economics, mathematics, natural sciences, and social sciences. Its programmes emphasise strong theoretical foundations, mathematical rigour, and methodological innovation, combined with applications to real-world problems. This academic approach enabled the development of new statistical theories, sampling techniques, and analytical frameworks tailored to India’s developmental needs.

A key rationale was to support evidence-based governance and national planning. ISI played a central academic role in developing large-scale survey methods, national income estimation, and statistical systems essential for economic planning and policy evaluation. It also served as a training ground for statisticians, economists, and data specialists for government, academia, and industry. ISI was also envisioned as a global research hub, fostering original scholarship and international collaboration. Academically, it set benchmarks for excellence in quantitative education and research, contributing to the advancement of statistics and strengthening India’s long-term capacity in data-driven decision-making.