Why Are High-Quality Standards Essential for India's Growth and Sustainability?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Sustainability is a key pillar for India's growth strategy.
- High-quality standards are essential for consumer safety and international trade.
- India is committed to the principles of a circular economy.
- Quality Control Orders aim to eliminate substandard products.
- Collaboration with international experts is crucial for enhancing standards.
New Delhi, Sep 15 (NationPress) India is placing significant emphasis on sustainability as a core element of its growth strategy. The country is keen on adopting lessons from developed nations, especially the high-quality standards that have spurred global economic advancement, stated Piyush Goyal, the Minister of Commerce and Industry, during a speech on Monday.
Goyal underscored that these elevated standards are pivotal to India's aspirations as the world’s fastest-growing large economy.
"In India’s growth journey, sustainability is non-negotiable," he remarked during the inauguration of the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) General Meeting and Exhibition, hosted by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
The minister highlighted the urgency for a developing nation like India to adopt robust standards, as they lay the groundwork for both domestic growth and international contributions.
"Aligning with global standards not only improves product quality but also encourages free trade, opens markets, and fosters broader international cooperation," he noted.
Such efforts will aid in expanding open markets, promoting equitable trade, and creating a level playing field for businesses, he added.
While acknowledging the attendance of international experts at the event, he expressed optimism that they would generate innovative ideas and explore strategies to enhance standards.
"With numerous specialists from engineering fields, the discussions at the exhibition are expected to enrich the global dialogue on standards," said Goyal.
He reiterated that advocating for high-quality standards is vital for ensuring consumer safety, stimulating demand, and supporting enduring growth.
The nation is deeply committed to the circular economy principles, aiming to minimize waste and conserve resources, viewing them as integral to its long-term developmental path.
"Standards are crucial for shaping India’s future. The country has numerous technical bodies and committees dedicated to establishing standards across various sectors. Initially, the emphasis was on developing standards with voluntary implementation. However, experience has shown that stricter adherence is necessary, leading to the enforcement of Quality Control Orders (QCOs) in pivotal areas," the minister emphasized.
He highlighted the positive impact of QCOs for toys, which have revolutionized the market by eliminating substandard products, fostering the production of high-quality toys in India, and ensuring child safety.
Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of "Zero Defect, Zero Effect," Goyal stated that the government is working diligently to cultivate a national ethos of quality and sustainability.