As part of World Standards Day celebrations, Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Jamshedpur organised 'Manak Mahotsav' in the steel city to enhance public awareness about standards, which are crucial for empowering consumers and encouraging them to check for BIS certification marks before purchasing products.
SK Verma, Senior Director and Head, Jamshedpur Branch Office, BIS briefed about the various initiatives of BIS including establishment of Standard Clubs in academic institutions, sensitization training for gram panchayats, training program for government officials and handholding initiatives for industries and jewelers.
"For the last few years, the focus of World Standards Day has been on one of the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The theme this year is 'Achieving Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure Through AI'," Verma said. He emphasized that every citizen of India should have access to safe, reliable and high-quality products and services, recognizing the interdependence of consumers and producers.
Dr Sanjay, HoD Mechanical Department, National Institute of Technology (NIT), Jamshedpur, said that the world is moving towards Industry 5.0, which refers to people working with robots and smart machines. "Germany is working on cobots (collaborative robots). Cobots are intended to be more flexible, secure and adaptable than traditional industrial robots."
SK Khirwal, Scientific Officer G, Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration & Research, Eastern Region, Jamshedpur, said that standards act as catalysts for technical development, industrial growth and societal well-being. "Atomic energy is a good alternate source for clean energy. It contributes towards economic growth and environmental sustainability."
Dr Anup Kumar, Chief Scientific Services, Tata Steel, emphasised on the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in the growth of industry. He shared the use of these technologies in Tata Steel to enhance the quality of products and processes. This boosts the 'Made in India' initiative and also facilitates both domestic and international trade.
Prof (Dr) Rajesh Kumar Tiwari, Principal, RVS College of Engineering and Technology, Jamshedpur, said, "AI has come into our daily lives. All industries, small or big, use AI to improve its products and sales. Industry 5.0 is already knocking on the door. If we do not start working on it, we will not be able to be a developed country."
More than 150 participants from various industries, trade and associations, consumers and educational institutions, including school students, attended the program. Awards were given out to industries, mentors from school and college, and resource persons from both colleges and industries. Cultural activities were performed by school students of St Xavier's English High School, Khasmahal, Jamshedpur, and BPDA High School, Bhimkhanda, Jamshedpur.
