Draft Indian Statistical Institute Bill, 2025
The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) released the draft Indian Statistical Institute Bill, 2025, which has sparked significant opposition from academicians and students of the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI). They argue that the Bill aims to undermine the institute's academic autonomy by transforming it from a "registered society to a statutory body corporate."
Background of Indian Statistical Institute (ISI)
- Founded in December 1931 by P.C. Mahalanobis in Kolkata.
- Registered under the Societies Registration Act of 1860 and later under the West Bengal Societies Registration Act of 1961.
- Declared as an Institution of National Importance (INI) by the Indian Statistical Institute Act, 1959.
- Instrumental in shaping India's planning and policy apparatus, including the development of the National Sample Survey Organisation (NSSO).
- Renowned for producing legendary scholars like Professor C.R. Rao and S.R.S. Varadhan.
- Offers various undergraduate and postgraduate degrees with about 1,200 students across six centers in India.
Concerns about the Draft Bill
- The transition of ISI from a "registered society to a statutory body corporate" is a major concern.
- Approximately 1,500 academicians have expressed opposition, highlighting the lack of transparency in repealing the 1959 Act.
- The Bill is perceived to infringe upon the jurisdiction of the Societies Registration Act and contradict the spirit of cooperative federalism.
- The proposed governance structure heavily favors government nominees, limiting faculty and academic stakeholder influence.
- Concerns over funding for basic research due to a push for a corporate funding model in the draft Bill.
- The Union government will control all appointments through the Board of Governors (BoG), potentially leading to political interference.
Government's Perspective and Opposition
- The government aims to enhance ISI's global competitiveness as it approaches its centenary in 2031.
- Four review committees have examined ISI, with the latest chaired by Dr. R.A. Mashelkar in 2020, recommending reforms.
- Opposition parties oppose the legislation.
