Pralhad Joshi Unveils BIS Portal on 79th Foundation Day

Current Context: On 6 January 2026, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi launched the Integrated Standardisation Portal (Beta Version) during the 79th Foundation Day of BIS at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.

• The portal digitizes the standards development process, making it more transparent and accessible.
• He also unveiled the SHINE Scheme to empower women in standardisation activities.
• New educational outreach initiatives were announced to spread awareness of quality standards among students.
• The Minister emphasized fast-tracking new standards to meet industry needs.
• He urged BIS to modernize its labs with advanced equipment, reducing human intervention.
• These steps aim to ensure safe, reliable, and high-quality products for citizens while boosting India’s global competitiveness.

Question:

Q.1 Which scheme was unveiled specifically to empower a particular demographic in the field of standardisation?
a) STAR Scheme for Students
b) SHINE Scheme for Women
c) PRAGATI Scheme for Industry
d) SAKSHAM Scheme for Lab Technicians

Answer: b) The SHINE Scheme to empower women in standardisation activities.