CSIR-NPL Inaugurates National Environmental and Solar Calibration Facilities

Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr Jitendra Singh, today inaugurated two globally significant scientific facilities at the CSIR–National Physical Laboratory during its 80th Foundation Day celebrations. The inaugurations mark a major milestone in India’s environmental governance and solar energy metrology capabilities.

Global Milestones in Environmental and Solar Metrology

The Minister inaugurated the world’s second National Environmental Standard Laboratory and the world’s fifth National Primary Standard Facility for Solar Cell Calibration. He stated that while the environmental laboratory represents a decisive leap in India’s environmental governance framework, the solar calibration facility places India among an elite global league in solar metrology. These facilities significantly enhance India’s capacity for accurate, traceable, and India-specific measurement standards.

CSIR-NPL’s Historic Role in India’s Scientific Journey

Describing India’s premier scientific institutions as monuments of the 20th and 21st centuries, Dr Jitendra Singh highlighted CSIR-NPL’s unique legacy. Established before Independence, the laboratory became a cornerstone of India’s post-Independence scientific architecture. He noted that CSIR itself predates independent India, making NPL one of the earliest among its 37 laboratories. The Minister recalled that national leaders such as Dr Syama Prasad Mukherjee and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel mentored the institution, where history and science intersect.

Indian Standard Time and Public Outreach

Highlighting NPL’s contribution to national integration, the Minister recalled that for decades Indian Standard Time was synchronised using the atomic clock housed at NPL. This silent yet profound contribution shaped everyday life across the country. He emphasised that institutions like NPL should be showcased to students and citizens to inspire scientific curiosity and innovation-oriented thinking.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• CSIR-NPL is India’s apex laboratory for standards and measurements.
• Indian Standard Time is maintained using atomic clocks at CSIR-NPL.
• The National Clean Air Programme relies on accurate air quality monitoring.
• Solar cell calibration standards are crucial for photovoltaic quality assurance.

Strengthening Environmental Governance and Solar Sector

The National Environmental Standard Laboratory will enable reliable calibration of air pollution monitoring instruments under Indian climatic conditions, supporting regulators, industries, and startups. The National Primary Standard Facility for Solar Cell Calibration, developed with PTB Germany, uses a laser-based Differential Spectral Responsivity system with globally lowest uncertainty. The facility will reduce dependence on foreign certification, save foreign exchange, and boost investor confidence in India’s solar sector. Director General CSIR, Dr N. Kalaiselvi, urged NPL to aim for global leadership, highlighting its growing strategic importance in timekeeping, metrology, and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.