The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has embarked on a crucial mission to raise awareness and promote compliance with Indian standards at the grassroots level. In a bid to ensure the effective implementation of government programs and schemes in villages, BIS has launched a comprehensive initiative to sensitize Gram Panchayat Presidents and Secretaries across the nation.
BIS, as the National Standards Body of India, plays a pivotal role in setting standards and conducting conformity assessments for products and services. Recognizing the paramount importance of adhering to Indian standards for the well-being of citizens, the environment, and the overall quality of products and services, BIS has initiated this outreach program.
The primary objective of this initiative is to instill an understanding of the significance of adhering to Indian Standards among Gram Panchayats and ensuring compliance with these standards while implementing government programs and schemes at the village level. It aims to promote the culture of standardization and the benefits of using products that conform to Indian Standards among Gram Panchayats, who play a crucial role in the execution of various government initiatives at the grassroots level.
Key Highlights of the Initiative:
1. 2.4 Lakh Gram Panchayats Reached Out: BIS has reached out to all Gram Panchayats across the country. Each Gram Panchayat has been provided with a booklet containing important and useful Indian Standards relevant to different sectors, emphasizing the importance of adhering to these standards during the execution of various state and central government programs and schemes.
2. Sensitization Workshops: BIS has also initiated training programs for Gram Panchayat Presidents and Secretaries in collaboration with state and district authorities nationwide. These training programs are scheduled to be conducted at block and district levels through BIS’s extensive network of 38 Branch Offices.
Benefits of the Initiative:
1. 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 implemented at the village level.
2. Consumer Protection: Adherence to standards ensures that products and services meet specified quality and safety criteria, thus protecting consumers from substandard or unsafe offerings.
3. Environmental Conservation: Following standards can contribute to environmental protection by regulating processes that may have adverse ecological impacts.
4. Capacity Building: The Sensitization Workshops are designed to empower Gram Panchayat officials with the knowledge and tools necessary to implement standards effectively.
5. National Progress: This initiative aligns with the vision of a prosperous and progressive India by fostering a culture of quality and safety in all sectors.
6. Awareness on BIS Care App: To empower consumers, BIS has also developed the BIS Care App, available for both Android and iOS platforms. Consumers can use the app to access information on Indian Standards, products covered under compulsory certification, a list of BIS certified manufacturers, verify the authenticity of certified goods and materials, and lodge complaints in case of dissatisfaction.
BIS has also appealed to all concerned departments at the state and district levels to provide support in facilitating these workshops, which will go a long way in strengthening the implementation of standards at the grassroots level and ensuring the development of quality infrastructure. BIS firmly believes that with collective efforts, the effective implementation of standards in rural areas can safeguard the interests of citizens and promote the growth of our nation.
