Posted on September 11, 2023, by PIB Delhi
In a groundbreaking initiative, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has embarked on a mission aimed at fostering quality consciousness across India, beginning at the grassroots level. With the objective of ensuring the effective implementation of government programs and schemes in rural areas, BIS has initiated a comprehensive outreach program targeting Gram Panchayat Presidents and Secretaries throughout the country.
BIS, renowned as the National Standards Body of India, holds a pivotal role in establishing standards and conducting assessments of product and service conformity. Recognizing the pivotal significance of adhering to Indian standards for the welfare of citizens, environmental sustainability, and the overall quality of products and services, BIS has taken the lead in launching this far-reaching program.
Empowering Gram Panchayats with Indian Standards
The primary aim of this initiative is to instill an understanding of the importance of adhering to Indian Standards among Gram Panchayats and to ensure their strict compliance while implementing government programs and schemes at the village level. The initiative also seeks to promote a culture of standardization and the advantages of using products that conform to Indian Standards among Gram Panchayats. These local governing bodies play a crucial role in executing various government initiatives at the grassroots level.
Key Highlights of the Initiative
2.4 Lakh Gram Panchayats Reached: BIS has reached out to all 2.4 Lakh Gram Panchayats across the country. Each Gram Panchayat has been equipped with a booklet containing essential Indian Standards relevant to different sectors, emphasizing the significance of adhering to these standards while implementing various state and central government programs and schemes.
Sensitization Workshops: In collaboration with state and district authorities nationwide, BIS has also initiated training programs for Gram Panchayat Presidents and Secretaries. These workshops are planned to be conducted at block and district levels through the extensive network of 38 BIS Branch Offices.
Benefits of the Initiative
Enhanced Quality and Safety: By promoting compliance with Indian standards, the initiative aims to enhance the overall quality and safety of government programs and schemes at the village level.
Consumer Protection: Compliance with standards ensures that products and services meet specified quality and safety criteria, thus safeguarding consumers from substandard or unsafe offerings.
Environmental Conservation: Adherence to standards can contribute to environmental protection by regulating processes that may have adverse ecological impacts.
Capacity Building: The Sensitization Workshops are designed to empower Gram Panchayat officials with the knowledge and tools necessary to effectively implement standards.
National Progress: The initiative aligns with the vision of a prosperous and progressive India by fostering a culture of quality and safety across all sectors.
BIS Care App Awareness: To empower consumers, BIS has developed the BIS Care App, available on both Android and iOS platforms. This app enables consumers to access information on Indian Standards, products covered under compulsory certification, a list of BIS certified manufacturers, and a mechanism to lodge complaints in case of dissatisfaction.
BIS has also called upon all concerned departments at the state and district levels to provide their support in facilitating these workshops. They believe that collective efforts are key to the effective implementation of standards in rural areas, ensuring citizens’ interests are safeguarded, and promoting the growth and development of our nation.