Overview of Indian Statistical Institute
The Indian Statistical Institute (ISI), established in 1931 by the eminent statistician Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis, is a premier public research institution headquartered in Kolkata, India. With additional campuses in Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, and Giridih, ISI has a pan-Indian presence. Renowned for its deep research orientation and rigorous academic environment, the Institute serves approximately 1,700 students, supported by over 150 academic staff. Internationally recognized, ISI’s blend of teaching and research underpins its contribution to fundamental and applied statistics, computation, and related fields.
ISI is globally acclaimed for its leadership in statistics, mathematics, computer science, economics, and quantitative social sciences. Its flagship programs in Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, and Quantitative Economics attract top students and faculty. The Institute pursues an interdisciplinary model, fostering strong connections between theory and real-world applications. ISI’s research output is substantial, reflected in high-impact publications, national awards, and partnerships with leading international institutes. It conducts consultancy projects for government and industry and is a major data provider for national planning. The Institute regularly ranks among Asia’s top research centers in mathematical sciences and has hosted international academic collaborations, including joint degree programs and consortia for data science and AI research.
The ISI community is lively and intellectually diverse, with numerous student-led clubs spanning mathematics, coding, sports, literature, debate, and photography. Annual cultural festivals and academic symposia foster interdisciplinary engagement. Student support services include counseling, mentoring, and career guidance, upholding a commitment to inclusivity and academic excellence. Residential facilities on the main campus support a collaborative atmosphere, while sports and arts initiatives contribute to overall student development. The community values diversity, attracting students and faculty from across India and abroad, and emphasizes internationalization through regular exchange programs and global symposia.
Grounded in a tradition of excellence, ISI’s mission is to advance statistical and scientific knowledge for societal benefit. The Institute aspires to nurture innovation, uphold the highest standards of integrity, and promote equity and global citizenship in education and research.
