Abstract
On National Statistics Day, we honour P.C. Mahalanobis's contributions to statistics over the years and his idea of using statistics to advance national development. It emphasises how important statistics are to the development of evidence-based strategies and policies for long-term growth and the welfare of society. Every year, a new area of statistics and its applications are highlighted as the theme of the day. National Statistics Day 2024, with its theme "Use of Data for Decision Making," highlights the transformative potential of data in shaping a better future. Through emphasising the relationship between statistics and sustainable development objectives, the celebration encourages data-driven strategies to successfully tackle socio-economic and environmental issues.