Bureau of Indian Standards celebrates 78th Foundation Day

NEW DELHI: Quality is not just a measure; it is a commitment and a way of life. It forms the foundation of trust; fuels progress and drives innovation, said Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution and New & Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi during his address at the 78th Foundation Day of Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) in New Delhi today.
Joshi said that the Government, under the guidance of Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has ensured that the people get safe, reliable and high-quality products in line with the guiding principle of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Vikas and Sabka Prayas’. He further said that the cornerstone of the quality ecosystem is the implementation of the Quality Control Orders (QCOs). He elaborated that continuous expansion of QCOs showcases Central Government’s commitment towards building a progressive quality ecosystem. Quoting Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Zero Defect, Zero Effect’, the Union Minister emphasized on making quality products with zero defects that are sustainable, ecofriendly and have zero effect on the environment. India’s progress will be decided by its own standards that are not only globally recognized by locally impactful, he said.
More than 23,500 standards have been enforced in every sector from bags to machines and engineering to medical goods, Shri Joshi said. He also mentioned that 94% of Indian standards have been harmonized with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards. From just 14 QCOs covering 106 products notified for compulsory BIS certification and implementation of Indian Standards in 2014. In contrast, today, 186 QCOs covering 760 products have been notified, the minister informed.
Over 44.28 crore articles of gold, jewelry/artefacts have been hallmarked so far. Joshi also said that there is a consumer demand for hallmarking of silver as well and urged the BIS to deliberate on it. The Union Minister applauded the Bureau for its legacy and unwavering commitment to upholding the core values of quality, trust and excellence. He mentioned that BIS Quality Marks have become a symbol of Trust across multiple sectors promoting agriculture, manufacturing and technology.