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Sensitization Program on BIS Standards and Mandatory BIS Certification for MSMEs

On 18th December 2024, a Sensitization Program on BIS Standards and Products under Mandatory BIS Certification was successfully organized to raise awareness among MSMEs about the crucial role of the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) in promoting quality and safety in products. The event was jointly hosted by COSIA (Chamber of Small Industry Associations) and TSSIA (Thane Small Scale Industries Association) and aimed to help businesses understand the significance of adhering to BIS standards and obtaining the necessary certifications for compliance, quality assurance, and consumer protection.

The program, held at TSSIA House, Thane, provided MSMEs with valuable insights into BIS processes, standards formulation, product certification, and the essential benefits of obtaining BIS certification marks. The session also focused on how MSMEs can leverage these standards to expand their market reach and enhance product quality while ensuring consumer safety.

The event commenced with a warm Welcome Address by Mr. Vijay Joshi, Vice President of COSIA, who emphasized the importance of compliance with national and international standards. He highlighted how adherence to quality standards not only improves product reliability but also builds trust among consumers, paving the way for sustainable growth and success for MSMEs. Mr. Joshi’s address set the tone for the day’s discussions and stressed the necessity of creating awareness about the advantages of BIS certification for MSMEs.

Mrs. Sujata Soparkar, President of TSSIA, delivered the Opening Remarks, extending her gratitude to the BIS team for sharing their expertise and to the participants for their interest in understanding the nuances of BIS certification. Mrs. Soparkar spoke about the role of TSSIA in supporting MSMEs in their growth journey and the importance of ensuring that products manufactured by MSMEs meet regulatory and quality standards that consumers expect.

Presentation by BIS Team

The highlight of the program was an in-depth Presentation by the BIS Team, which was led by Mrs. Prem Sajani Patanala, Director & Head, and Mr. Aman Singh, Scientist C/Deputy Director, BIS Mumbai. Their presentation provided a comprehensive overview of BIS and its various functions, helping attendees gain a deeper understanding of how the organization supports product quality, safety, and consumer protection.

The key areas covered in the presentation included:

Background of BIS: An introduction to the history and evolution of BIS, its role in the Indian economy, and its commitment to ensuring that products conform to national and international standards.

Core Activities of BIS: Explanation of the core activities performed by BIS, including standard formulation, product certification, and laboratory testing.

Standards Formulation: The process through which BIS formulates standards for a wide range of products and services to ensure quality and safety.

Product Certification and BIS Certification Marks: How businesses can apply for BIS certification and the significance of the BIS certification mark on products. The team discussed how obtaining the certification ensures compliance with national quality standards and enhances consumer confidence.

Mandatory Standards and Compulsory Registration Scheme: The presentation highlighted specific products and industries where compliance with BIS standards is mandatory, especially in the context of electronics and IT goods under the Compulsory Registration Scheme.

Management Systems Certification: Information on management system standards like ISO and the role of BIS in certifying business processes that contribute to overall organizational quality.

Laboratory Activity: Overview of BIS laboratories and their role in ensuring that products meet quality standards through rigorous testing and evaluation.

Hallmarking of Jewellery/Artifacts: An important section was dedicated to the hallmarking process for gold jewellery, which ensures authenticity and quality assurance.

International Activities of BIS: BIS’s involvement in international standardization bodies, including its contribution to setting global benchmarks and promoting international trade.

Consumer Protection and Enforcement Activities: How BIS works to protect consumers through monitoring and enforcing compliance with product standards, ensuring that only safe and quality products reach the market.

BIS Act and Provisions: A brief on the BIS Act and the legal framework that governs the certification process, as well as the rights and obligations of manufacturers under this act.

BIS Care App: A demonstration of the BIS Care App, an innovative mobile application that allows consumers to check the authenticity of BIS-certified products and report counterfeit goods.

Following the presentation, the floor was opened for an engaging Question and Answer session. Attendees had the opportunity to interact with the BIS team, clarifying any doubts they had regarding the certification process, the standards applicable to their products, and the steps required to get BIS-certified. This session helped reinforce the practical aspects of BIS certification and encouraged MSMEs to take proactive steps towards compliance.

The program concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Shri. Vijay Joshi, Vice President of COSIA, who expressed his gratitude to the BIS team for their informative presentation and to all the participants for their active involvement. He reiterated the importance of BIS standards in ensuring the safety and quality of products and encouraged MSMEs to take full advantage of the resources and support available through BIS.

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