More than 1,500 academics have expressed grave concerns and held demonstrations in Kolkata to protest a Central government plan to repeal the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) Act, 1959.
About Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) Act, 1959
The Indian Statistical Institute was founded by Professor P.C. Mahalanobis in Kolkata on 17th December, 1931
The ISI, established earlier as a society, plays a crucial role in statistical research, education, and training in India
The ISI Act 1959 primarily applies to the ISI, its governing body, employees, and students
The Act aimed to recognize the ISI’s contributions to national development and provide it with the necessary autonomy and support to carry out its functions effectively
The ISA Act 1959 declared the ISI an institution of national importance
This Act falls under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation.
Salient Features of Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) Act, 1959
Empowers the ISI to grant degrees and diplomas in statistics, mathematics, quantitative economics, computer science, and related subjects.
Provides for grants, loans, and other financial assistance from the Central Government.
Mandates the audit of the Institute’s accounts by qualified auditors.
Requires prior approval from the Central Government for certain actions by the Institute, such as altering its objectives, amending its memorandum, or disposing of certain properties.
Provides for the constitution of committees by the Central Government to prepare the Institute’s program of work and review its activities.
Empowers the Central Government to issue directions to the Institute.
Allows the Central Government to assume control of the Institute under certain circumstances
IAS-2026 - OPTIONAL / GEOGRAPHY / PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION / SOCIOLOGY / ANTHROPOLOGY / ORIENTATION ON 03 & 04-10-2025 
