Dhaka: Planning Adviser Dr. Wahiduddin Mahmud emphasized the importance of enhancing the independence, transparency, and credibility of the official statistics generated by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS). This was highlighted during his address at a seminar organized to observe ‘World Statistics Day and National Statistics Day 2025’ held at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre, Sher-e-Bangla Nagar.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr. Mahmud pointed out that the government is implementing recommendations from a report by Hossain Zillur Rahman, with potential amendments to the Statistics Act 2013 being considered. He announced that BBS will have the autonomy to publish survey-based reports without requiring higher official approval, provided they consult with relevant expert committees.
Dr. Mahmud noted that critical statistics, including those related to GDP growth and inflation, traditionally needed approval at ministerial or even Prime Minister levels, will now be published directly by BBS. He warned against political influence on official statistics, which could result in selectively publishing data favorable to the government, describing such practices as a form of half-truth.
Highlighting the need for “statistical literacy,” Dr. Mahmud stressed that citizens, especially those involved with news media, should understand the implications of metrics like inflation, GDP growth, and life expectancy. He elaborated on the statistical complexity of life expectancy, citing the increased survival probability for children after the age of five.
He advocated for a shift in data collection focus towards pressing national issues rather than solely aligning with international development goals. Dr. Mahmud concluded by asserting that Bangladesh, with its rich data history since independence, boasts reliable statistics comparable to its neighbors.
The seminar was presided over by SID Secretary Aleya Akter, while UNDP Bangladesh’s Deputy Resident Representative Sonali Dayaratne served as the guest of honor. Other notable attendees included Chief Adviser’s Special Assistant Professor Dr. Anisuzzaman Chowdhury and PPRC’s Executive Chairman Dr. Hossain Zillur Rahman.
The event featured a welcome address by BBS Director General Mohammad Mizanur Rahman and a keynote by BBS Director Kabir Uddin Ahammed. Panel discussions included insights from BIDS Director General Professor A K Enamul Haque and other esteemed statisticians.
Globally, World Statistics Day has been celebrated every five years since 2010, as per the United Nations General Assembly’s decision. In Bangladesh, the day is marked with various events, including a rally and a national seminar, adhering to government instructions that merged the observance of National Statistics Day and World Statistics Day on October 20.