SRINAGAR, APRIL 17: As part of the ongoing celebrations commemorating the 75th Anniversary of the National Sample Survey (NSS), the National Statistics Office (Field Operations Division), Regional Office Srinagar, today organized an Essay Competition at S.P. College, Moulana Azad Road.
The event saw vibrant participation from students of various academic streams of the college. Approximately 25 students took part in the competition on the topic: “Use of Official Statistics in the Formation of Plans in the Country.”
The aim was to foster awareness among youth about the significance of official statistics in the planning and development of the nation. The programme was formally inaugurated by Kavita Singh, Senior Statistical Officer, who emphasized that this competition is not merely an academic activity, but a platform to educate students on how data drives the formation of national policies. Arif Iqbal Bhat, Assistant Director, NSO (FOD), Regional Office Srinagar, addressed the audience and shed light on the importance of the surveys conducted by the National Statistics Office. He underlined the crucial role these surveys play in evidence-based policymaking and urged the young generation to be part of this mission by sharing accurate information and spreading awareness within the community.
From the college’s side, Dr. Bashir Ahmad Sheikh, Principal, S.P. College, extended his sincere thanks to the NSO (FOD) team for organizing the event and highlighted the indispensable role of statistical data in modern governance. He also motivated students to actively participate in such programs to become more familiar with the functioning of the National Sample Survey Office. The event was warmly supported by Jon Mohammad Bhat, Assistant Professor of English and Nodal Officer from the college, who welcomed the NSO (FOD) staff and appreciated their initiative to raise awareness about the NSS surveys among students. Sheikh Taheen Mustafa, Senior Statistical Officer, elaborated on the various ongoing surveys conducted by NSO (FOD) and explained their significance in shaping the nation’s socio-economic policies.
The essay entries were evaluated by Masarat Sidiq, Senior Statistical Officer, in collaboration with faculty members from the college. The top three participants were awarded mementoes and certificates, while certificates of participation were distributed to all the students who took part in the event. The session concluded with a vote of thanks by Tariq Ahmad Tanga, Senior Statistical Officer, who expressed his deep appreciation to the principal, college staff, and all participants for their enthusiastic involvement and support, which contributed to the success of the event.
“This collaborative initiative reflects the dedication of NSO (FOD) in fostering a deeper understanding of statistics among students and encouraging active engagement in the nation-building process through informed data participation,” NSO statement said.