Embark on a Journey: ISI Kolkata Unveiled
Get ready to explore the academic haven that is the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI). In this upcoming journey, we'll unravel the institution's rich history, delve into its renowned academic programs, and discover the impactful research crafted by its distinguished faculty. Walk with me through the campus, peek into student life, and gain firsthand insights into ISI Kolkata.
Introduction: Nurturing Excellence in Statistics - The ISI Kolkata Odyssey
In the bustling city of Kolkata, a testament to academic excellence and pioneering research unfolds in the form of the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI). Established in 1931 under the visionary guidance of Professor Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis, ISI traces its origins to a modest Statistical Laboratory at Presidency College, Kolkata. What began as a small endeavor soon transformed into an academic powerhouse, shaping the landscape of Statistics and related sciences.
Spanning nine decades, ISI's journey is marked by phenomenal growth, culminating in its current expansive campus at Baranagar on the northern outskirts of Kolkata. Today, ISI stands as a global leader in research and training, gaining acclaim as one of the foremost institutions in the world.
Enshrined as an Institution of National Importance through the Indian Statistical Institute Act of 1959, ISI has become a pivotal force in the development and application of Statistics. This empowered ISI to grant degrees and diplomas not only in Statistics but also in Mathematics, Quantitative Economics, Computer Science, and other disciplines related to Statistics.
Headquartered in Kolkata, ISI's influence extends across major cities with centers in Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Tezpur. These centers, equipped with their own campuses, serve as hubs for groundbreaking research and academic endeavors. ISI's presence isn't confined to these locations alone; additional units in Coimbatore, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Pune contribute to the Institute's Statistical Quality Control and Operations Research mission.
In this exploration, we will embark on a journey through the vibrant history, academic programs, and the distinguished faculty's impactful research. ISI is not merely an institution; it's a legacy that has produced some of the most accomplished professionals in Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, and Economics. As we delve into the corridors of ISI Kolkata, we witness the convergence of tradition and innovation, where students carve their destinies, faculty pioneers groundbreaking research, and the legacy of excellence continues to unfold, transcending geographical boundaries.
A Chronicle of Excellence: The Historic Journey of the Indian Statistical Institute
Inception at Presidency College:
The tale of the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) commences in a small statistical laboratory set up by the illustrious Professor Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis at Presidency College, Kolkata. It was in this academic crucible that Professor Mahalanobis, then a professor of Physics, laid the foundation for what would become a pioneering institution.
Formal Establishment:
On December 17, 1931, during a historic meeting presided over by Sir R. N. Mookerjee, the first President of the Institute, the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) was officially established. Professor Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis assumed the role of the Honorary Secretary, and the Institute was registered on April 28, 1932, as a non-government and non-profit learned society under the Societies Registration Act. The primary objectives, as outlined in its Memorandum of Association, included promoting the study and dissemination of knowledge in Statistics, developing statistical theory and methods, and utilizing them for national development and social welfare.
The Glorious Early Years:
In its nascent stages, ISI embarked on a remarkable journey, addressing pressing issues through pioneering programs. The first two decades witnessed groundbreaking initiatives, such as sample surveys of crop yield and land utilization, socio-economic studies post the Bengal famine (1943-44), and extensive flood research. Simultaneously, a cadre of brilliant statisticians, including R C Bose, S N Roy, and C R Rao, conducted path-breaking theoretical research under Professor Mahalanobis, garnering international acclaim.
ISI's Contributions to Nation-Building:
One of ISI's significant contributions to India's development occurred in 1954 when Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru entrusted Professor Mahalanobis and ISI with the responsibility of formulating the draft Second Five-Year Plan. This marked the Institute's foray into economic planning, laying the groundwork for major contributions to India's economic development.
Pioneering in Computing:
In 1956, ISI achieved a milestone by installing the first electronic computer in the country. Further, in 1961, in collaboration with Jadavpur University, ISI undertook the design and development of a fully transistorized digital computer, ISI-JU-1. The Electronic Computer Laboratory at ISI played a pivotal role in introducing various computing technologies, including the first mechanical hand computing machine, analog computer, punched card storing machine, and solid-state computer in India.
Global Recognition and Distinguished Visitors:
Over the years, ISI garnered international acclaim, hosting eminent scientists and Nobel Laureates such as Frederic and Irene Curie, Neils Bohr, and AN Kolmogorov. The Institute's legacy of hosting distinguished visitors continued with luminaries like Joseph E Stiglitz, James A Mirrlees, Eric S Maskin, and SRS Varadhan, the 2007 Abel Prize winner.
ISI's Growth and Expansion:
ISI, headquartered in Kolkata since its inception, expanded its footprint with the establishment of centers in Delhi (1974), Bengaluru (1978), Chennai (2008), and Tezpur (2011). The Delhi and Bangalore units initially focused on consultancy services but later evolved into teaching centers. The recent additions of the Chennai and Tezpur centers signify ISI's commitment to advancing research in Statistics.
Formal Empowerment and Academic Growth:
The formal empowerment of ISI for awarding degrees came in December 1959, with the enactment of the Indian Statistical Institute Act. The institute introduced degree programs such as Bachelor of Statistics (Honours), Master of Statistics, Master of Science (Quantitative Economics), Bachelor of Mathematics (Honours), and Master of Mathematics in subsequent years. ISI's academic landscape continued to evolve, with the introduction of various diploma and postgraduate programs catering to emerging fields such as computer science, quality management science, business analytics, and more.
Recent Program Additions:
In recent years, ISI has introduced diverse programs, including a Postgraduate Diploma in Statistical Methods and Analytics, a Master of Science in Quality Management Science, a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Analytics (jointly with IIM Calcutta and IIT Kharagpur), and more, showcasing the Institute's adaptability to emerging academic trends.
As we traverse through ISI's historical tapestry, we witness an institution that began as a small laboratory, transforming into a global hub for statistical research, education, and innovation.
Campuses
ISI Kolkata (Main Campus):
Located on Barrackpore Trunk Road in Bonhooghly, Kolkata, the ISI Kolkata campus is known for its eco-friendly infrastructure, adhering to the vision of its founder, Mahalanobis. The campus consists of multiple addresses, including an erstwhile office of the National Sample Survey Organisation. It offers a range of academic programs, including bachelor's and master's degrees in Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, and more. The campus is home to various divisions and units, each specializing in different research areas such as Statistics, Human Genetics, Physics, and Applied Mathematics. The International Statistical Education Centre (ISEC) at Kolkata provides training to sponsored students from different regions. The Central Library boasts an extensive collection of books and journals with a focus on statistics and related studies.
Programs offered
- B.Stat. (Hons.) - 3 years
- M.Stat. - 2 years
- M.Math. - 2 years
- M.S. in Quantitative Economics - 2 years
- M.S. in Library and Information Science - 2 years
- M.S. in Quality Management Science (MSQMS) - 2 years
- M.Tech. in Computer Science - 2 years
- M.Tech. in Quality, Reliability, and Operations Research - 2 years
- Ph.D.
- Special Units:
- Statistics and Mathematics Unit (SMU)
- Human Genetics Unit (HGU)
- Physics and Applied Mathematics Unit (PAMU)
- Geological Studies Unit (GSU)
- Advanced Computation and MicroElectronics Unit (ACMU)
- Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition Unit (CVPRU)
- Machine Intelligence Unit (MIU)
- Electronics and Communication Sciences Unit (ECSU)
- Applied Statistics Unit (ASU)
- Economic Research Unit (ERU)
- Linguistic Research Unit (LRU)
- Sociology Research Unit (SRU)
- Psychometry Research Unit (PRU)
- Population Studies Unit (PSU)
- Other Facilities:
- International Statistical Education Centre (ISEC)
- Center for Soft Computing Research: A National Facility
- Central Library with branches at other facilities
- Eco-friendly campus with an emphasis on sustainability.
ISI Delhi Campus:
Established in 1974 and relocated to its present campus in 1975, ISI Delhi offers master's level courses such as Master of Statistics (M. Stat) and Master of Science (M. S.) in Quantitative Economics, along with doctoral programs. The campus features essential facilities like hostels, a library, gardens, a canteen, and recreational spaces. The institute's presence in Delhi underscores its commitment to providing quality education in statistics and related fields.
Programs offered
- M. Stat - Master of Statistics
- M.S. in Quantitative Economics
- Ph.D.
- Facilities: Hostel, Library, Gardens, Canteen.
ISI Bangalore Campus:
The ISI Bangalore campus has a rich history, starting as a Statistical Quality Control and Operations Research unit in 1954. It officially became a center in 1996. The Bengaluru center is recognized for academic activities in Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, SQC and Operations Research, Library and Information Science, and Quantitative Economics. It offers bachelor's and master's level courses, including Bachelor of Mathematics and Master of Science in Quality Management Science (MSQMS). The campus is equipped with essential facilities, such as hostels, a guest house, an auditorium, and various units dedicated to specific research areas.
Programs offered
- B.Math. (Hons.) - 3 years
- M.Math. - 2 years
- M.S. in Library and Information Science - 2 years
- M.S. in Quality Management Science (MSQMS) - 2 years
- Ph.D.
- Units:
- Economic Analysis Unit (EAU)
- Statistics and Mathematics Unit
- Systems Science and Informatics Unit (SSIU)
ISI Tezpur Campus:
Established in 2011, ISI Tezpur is the fourth center of ISI. While specific details about the programs offered at ISI Tezpur are not provided, the campus is part of ISI's broader commitment to education and research in statistics. As a relatively newer addition to the ISI network, Tezpur is likely to contribute to the institute's mission in various ways.
These campuses collectively contribute to the overarching objectives of ISI, including research, training, and the application of statistical techniques in diverse fields. The ISI motto, "à¤िन्नेष्वैक्यस्य दर्शनम्" (Bhinneswaykyasya Darshanam), emphasizing unity in diversity, resonates across all campuses, fostering a culture of academic excellence and innovation.
Programs offered
- Undergraduate Programs (3 years):
- B.Stat. (Hons.) at Kolkata
- B.Math. (Hons.) at Bengaluru
- Master's Programs (2 years):
- M.Stat. at Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata
- M.Math. at Kolkata, Bengaluru
- M.S. in Quantitative Economics at Kolkata, Delhi
- M.S. in Library and Information Science at Bengaluru
- M.S. in Quality Management Science (MSQMS) at Bengaluru and Hyderabad
- M.Tech. in Computer Science at Kolkata
- M.Tech. in Quality, Reliability and Operations Research at Kolkata
- Ph.D.:
- Offered at Kolkata, Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai
- Diploma Programs:
- P.G. Diploma in Statistical Methods and Analytics (1 year) at Tezpur (Assam)
- P.G. Diploma in Statistical Methods with Applications (1 year) at Tezpur (Assam)
- Post-Graduate Diploma in Computer Applications (1 year) at Giridih
- Part-time Certificate/Diploma course in SQC and OR (1+1 years) at Mumbai, Chennai
- Research Divisions and Centers:
- Applied Statistics, Biological Sciences, Computer and Communication Sciences, Physics, and Earth Sciences, Theoretical Statistics and Mathematics, Social Sciences, Statistical Quality Control, and Operations Research.
Please note that some information about ISI Tezpur's programs is not provided, and you may want to refer to the institute's official website or contact them directly for more details.
Notable Alumni of Indian Statistical Institute (ISI):
Academia:
1. C. R. Rao: Renowned statistician and professor, known for his significant contributions to statistical research.
2. Anil Kumar Gain: Noted for his work in statistical science and research.
3. S. R. S. Varadhan: Awarded the Abel Prize in 2007 for his work in probability theory.
4. Debabrata Basu: Distinguished statistician with contributions to econometrics.
5. K. R. Parthasarathy: Respected mathematician and probability theorist.
6. Jayanta Kumar Ghosh: Eminent statistician known for his work in Bayesian statistics.
7. Bimal K. Roy: Acclaimed for his contributions to cryptography and information security.
8. Sankar Kumar Pal: Expert in pattern recognition and artificial intelligence.
Non-Academic Careers:
1. Subramanian Swamy: Influential politician and economist.
2. Dipankar Bhattacharya: Political figure known for his contributions to left-wing politics.
3. Ram Kesavan: Successful professional in the field of Management Science.
4. R. Palani Velu: Accomplished figure in Management Science.
5. Chemuduri Narayana: Recognized for his contributions to the field of Management Science.
6. G.M. Naidu: Notable figure in Management Science.
Other Fields:
1. Jean Drèze: Economist and development scholar.
2. Sucharit Sarkar: Respected figure in an unspecified field.
These ISI alumni have made significant strides in academia, contributing to statistics, mathematics, probability theory, computer science, and economics. Additionally, notable individuals have ventured into non-academic careers, excelling in politics and management science. Their achievements reflect the institute's commitment to fostering excellence and innovation across diverse fields. ISI continues to be recognized as one of the top institutions in India for basic sciences.
Achievements of the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI):
1. Chief Guests at Convocations:
Since 1962, ISI has hosted distinguished individuals as Chief Guests at its convocations, reflecting the institute's commitment to excellence and academic achievement. Notable chief guests include Sir Ronald A. Fisher, Professor Amartya Sen, Sir David Cox, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, Nobel laureates like Professor Joseph E. Stiglitz, Professor James A. Mirrlees, and other eminent personalities from various fields.
2. Contributions to Statistics:
ISI researchers have made fundamental contributions to various fields of statistics, including the design of experiments, sample surveys, multivariate statistics, and computer science. Pioneering work by Mahalanobis, Raj Chandra Bose, Anil Kumar Bhattacharya, and others has significantly impacted statistical theory. C. R. Rao's theorems, Cramér–Rao inequality, and Rao-Blackwell Theorem are among ISI's contributions to statistical inference.
3. Computer Science Advancements:
ISI played a pivotal role in India's early computer history. Samarendra Kumar Mitra designed India's first indigenous computer in 1953. ISI hosted the first two digital computers in South Asia, HEC-2M from England (1956) and URAL from the Soviet Union (1959). The institute developed ISIJU-1, the first solid-state computer in India, in collaboration with Jadavpur University (1964). ISI's computer science unit has been a leader in research, with achievements in microcomputer systems, knowledge-based computer systems, and more.
4. Planning Commission's Mahalanobis Model:
Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis, the founder of ISI, played a crucial role in India's economic planning. The Mahalanobis model, incorporated into the second five-year plan, emphasized industrialization and self-reliance. ISI's researchers, including B. S. Minhas and K. S. Parikh, contributed significantly to the Planning Commission of the Government of India.
5. Noteworthy Alumni and Achievements:
ISI alumni have excelled in academia, politics, and management science. Alumni like C. R. Rao, Anil Kumar Gain, Subramanian Swamy, and others have made significant contributions to their respective fields. The institute's emphasis on rigorous academic training is reflected in the achievements of its alumni.
6. Landmark Research in Social Sciences:
ISI has made significant contributions to social sciences, anthropology, and paleontology. The discovery of dinosaur fossils, including the Barapasaurus tagorei, showcased ISI's multidisciplinary research. The Linguistic Research Unit's work in speech pathology and the invention of the SAFA hearing aid underscores ISI's impact on societal well-being.
7. Computer and Statistical Service Centre (CSSC):
Established in 1988, the CSSC equipped with the VAX 8650 system played a crucial role in providing computation services. The center contributed to the development of microcomputer systems, offering services to meet the evolving needs of researchers.
8. Center for Soft Computing Research:
Established in 2005, the Center for Soft Computing Research became a National Facility. Its focus on soft computing research reflects ISI's commitment to staying at the forefront of emerging technologies.
9. National and International Recognition:
ISI has consistently achieved recognition both nationally and internationally. Its ranking in the QS World University Rankings and NIRF Research Rankings attests to the institute's standing in the academic community.
In summary, ISI's achievements span a diverse range of fields, from pioneering contributions to statistics and computer science to impactful research in social sciences and a commitment to national economic planning. The institute's influence extends beyond academia, shaping India's development and advancing knowledge globally.