Dr Parveen Kumar
Statistics is the scientific study that deals with the collection and analysis of data and interpretation of that data to arrive at useful conclusions. It is mostly used to keep records, calculate probabilities, and provide insights into new knowledge. Basically it helps us to understand the world a little bit better through numbers and other quantitative information. Statistical knowledge helps us to use the proper methods to collect the data, employ the correct analyses, and effectively present the results. A sound and reliable statistical base is the essential pre requisite for socio-economic planning and policy formulation and for performance appraisal of various government policies and programmes in different sectors contributing to the economy of the country. Statistics is the bedrock of modern evidence based analysis and policy making.