14th October is observed as the World Standards Day.
Key facts
- World Standards Day raises global awareness about the importance of standardized measurements, technologies and industries.
- It gives recognition of scientists’ achievements in the development of voluntary universal standards used for measurements.
- The theme for this year is “Shared Vision for a Better World”.
- This year’s theme is part of the campaigns of ISO (the International Organization for Standardization), IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission), and ITU (International Telecommunication Union) towards creating global awareness about the role of standardization in achieving the United Nation’s 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- On the occasion of World Standards Day 2022, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) organized a standards conclave called “Manak Mahotsav”.
- The event was organized based on the theme “Standards for Sustainable Development Goals – A Shared Vision for a Better World”.
Background
World Standards Day commemorates the day in 1946, when representatives from 25 countries agreed to set up the International Organization for Standardization – an international body to promote global standards. The ISO officially started operations from February 23, 1947. World Standards Day was observed for the first time on October 14, 1970. This day was inaugurated by Faruk Sunter, the former President of the ISO.
Significance
Standardization of units of measurements, technology and equipment is critical in the age of globalization. It plays a major role in facilitating international trade and removing technical hurdles. It increases access to global market, promotes innovation, international collaboration, increases efficiency and minimises wastages. It also ensures the creation of a better world by building smart cities based on international standards.
About International Organization for Standardization
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is an international standard development organization that develops and publishes standards in all technical and non-technical fields. Since it was established, it has published over 24,261 international standards for business and technologies. This Geneva-headquartered organization has representatives from national standards organizations of the member countries. As of 2022, it has 167 member states.