Report of the National Statistical Commission Volume I

Collection of numerical data for the purpose of understanding the behaviour of various socio-economic variables has a long history. The origin of the term 'statistics' is associated with this concept, which is to describe the state. Of course, statistics, as a scientific discipline, goes beyond enumeration. Statistical inference is an important part of the discipline. However, inference will be fruitless, if the basic data are faulty or inaccurate or unreliable. That is why we have to pay attention to data collection in all its dimensions. A good statistical system is a prerequisite for sound decision-making and for the formulation and monitoring of public policies.