The Sampling and Official Statistics Unit (SOSU) of the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) was established in 2012 with the objective of promoting research, teaching, training, and capacity building in the field of official statistics. Its formation was inspired by the vision of Professor Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis, the founder of ISI, who recognized the importance of statistics in evidence-based policymaking and interdisciplinary research.

SOSU serves as a platform that brings together the academic expertise of ISI scientists and the practical experience of official statisticians. The Unit focuses particularly on methodological issues related to the Indian official statistical system, data collection, statistical analysis, and policy evaluation. Through this academic–government collaboration, SOSU aims to address emerging challenges in the production and use of reliable statistical information for public policy.

Since its establishment, SOSU has made significant contributions through demand-driven research projects, specialized training programmes, workshops, and capacity-building initiatives. Government departments and major public institutions, including the Reserve Bank of India, have regularly engaged with the Unit for training and professional development. Research undertaken by SOSU has also contributed to discussions on improving existing data-collection methodologies and strengthening official statistical practices.

A major strength of SOSU is its interdisciplinary approach. With the rapid development of information and communication technologies and increasing computational capabilities, the Unit recognizes the growing need for high-quality data, appropriate statistical methodologies, and rigorous tools for policy analysis and causal inference. The Unit therefore encourages collaboration between researchers, policymakers, and experienced official statisticians to develop practical and scientifically sound solutions to contemporary policy challenges.

SOSU also contributes to the dissemination of statistical knowledge beyond major academic centres. It has organized training programmes and workshops in the North-Eastern region of India, often in collaboration with local institutions, with the aim of strengthening capacity in official statistics and statistical research. In addition, scientists associated with the Unit have contributed to the development and improvement of official statistical systems in other developing countries.

Overall, the Sampling and Official Statistics Unit represents an important link between statistical theory, official data, and public policy. By combining academic research with practical governmental needs, SOSU seeks to strengthen the quality and relevance of official statistics while promoting specialized interdisciplinary research. Its continuing engagement with government institutions, researchers, and young statisticians reflects ISI's broader commitment to using statistics as a powerful instrument for informed decision-making and national development.

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