Power to collect statistics

49.    (1)     The Commissioner may, for the purposes of better administration of this Act, direct that statistics be collected relating to any matter under this Act.

(2)     Upon the direction made under sub-section (1), the Commissioner or the designated officer may, if found necessary, by notice in leading newspapers or in such other manner, as the Commissioner or the designated officer may deem fit, call upon all persons or any class or group of persons to furnish such information or returns, as may be stated therein for the purpose of collection of statistics.

(3)     Without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing provisions, the State Government may provide that every person or class or group of persons, registered under this Act, shall furnish, in addition to any other returns, provided for elsewhere, an annual return in such form, by such date and to such authority, as may be notified, and different provisions may be made for different classes or group of persons.