On World Standards Day, celebrated every year on October 14, Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution & New and Renewable Energy, Mr. Pralhad Joshi, delivered a compelling keynote address in New Delhi. His remarks focused on the vital role of the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) in safeguarding consumer interests by ensuring access to safe, reliable, and high-quality products for every citizen in India. This underscores a fundamental truth: consumer well-being is closely tied to the availability of quality goods. When consumers have access to reliable products, it not only boosts their confidence but also supports the growth and profitability of industries by creating demand for high-quality items.

During his address, Mr. Joshi reflected on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of making India synonymous with global standards. He emphasized that as India's economy continues to expand and its role in global trade increases, BIS must focus on maintaining high quality in its offerings. The minister acknowledged the remarkable contributions of BIS, stating that over 22,300 standards are currently enforced, with a substantial 94% harmonized with ISO and ISE standards. This alignment is crucial as it not only elevates the quality of products in India but also enhances the nation's reputation in international markets.

Launch of BIS Care App 3.0

One of the major highlights of the event was the launch of the BIS Care App 3.0. This innovative platform is designed to empower consumers by allowing them to verify the authenticity of BIS-certified products. Moreover, it facilitates the process of lodging complaints regarding sub-standard goods. Mr. Joshi emphasized the importance of enhancing public awareness about these standards, which is essential for both consumer empowerment and safety. The introduction of this app marks a significant step in making consumers more informed and proactive regarding the products they use.

Additionally, Mr. Joshi unveiled a promotional film that highlights BIS’s standardization efforts, aiming to create a better understanding among consumers about the importance of these standards. To further engage the public, he introduced a Quality Quest Game, an educational tool aimed at teaching consumers about quality standards in a fun and interactive manner.

Educational Resources and Initiatives

The event also saw the release of various educational resources, including reference handbooks and comic books designed to disseminate information about national standards. These materials reinforce the idea of “one nation, one standard”, a concept intended to ensure synergy among all stakeholders involved in the unified standards framework. This initiative is crucial in creating a cohesive approach to standards and quality assurance across various industries in India.

Mr. Joshi’s address not only highlights the essential role of BIS in the Indian economy but also showcases the government's commitment to enhancing consumer protection. By focusing on standards and quality, the government aims to build a robust foundation for economic growth, ensuring that consumers can trust the products they purchase.

The Future of Standards in India

As India strives to become a global leader, the focus on quality standards will be pivotal. The minister's call for BIS to prioritize quality as the nation’s economy grows reflects a proactive approach to consumer safety and industry standards. The government's efforts to align with international standards, as seen with the 94% harmonization with ISO and ISE, will not only boost consumer confidence but also enhance India’s competitiveness in the global market.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the initiatives launched during the World Standards Day address represent a significant advancement in the quality assurance landscape in India. The BIS Care App 3.0, the educational tools introduced, and the overarching theme of one nation, one standard are all steps in the right direction toward empowering consumers and enhancing their trust in the products available to them. As these efforts continue to unfold, they are likely to foster a more informed consumer base and a stronger economy.

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This focus on quality and standards is essential as we move toward a future where consumers are better informed, industries thrive on quality, and India's position in global trade is strengthened.