The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) recently concluded a two-day workshop on Digital Transformation in collaboration with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) at Yashobhoomi Convention Centre, Dwarka. The workshop, centered on the joint program Standards Machine Applicable Readable and Transferable (SMART), delved into the current status of SMART standards, addressing key themes such as information dissemination, progress tracking, industry sensitization, and deriving value for National Standards Bodies (NSBs). Standards Machine Applicable Readable and Transferable (SMART) is the joint programme of ISO and IEC to drive the digital evolution of international standards.
Since its establishment in 1947, BIS has actively collaborated with ISO & IEC. BIS is one of the largest standards bodies, boasting a standards portfolio exceeding 22,000 standards. Presently, BIS has established 387 Sectional Committees under 16 Division Councils. These committees comprise around 19,000 domain area experts representing diverse sectors such as industry, industry associations, academic institutions, research & development organizations, central and state government bodies, and civil society groups.
Small industries and MSMEs are the primary beneficiaries of digital transformation in standards. The workshop was addressed by Shri Pramod Kumar Tiwari, Director General – BIS ISO Central Secretariat, and saw participation from IEC Secretariat, and several ISO member countries, covering discussions on Data Management, End User Value, SMART pilots, and practical experiences in digital transformation. Shri Chandan Bahl, Deputy Director General (IR & TIS, MSC and SCM), emphasized the global impact of digital transformation in his welcome address. The program, outlined by Shri Rajeev Sharma, DDG (Standardization – II), focused on the impact of digital transformation on Industry 4.0. During the Theme Address, Mr. Gilles Thonet, Deputy Secretary-General IEC, and Ms. Mara Rolando, Head of PMO, ISO, shared insights into IEC & ISO strategies and digital transformation, acknowledging the potential learning from India’s journey. IEC Vice President and SMB Chair, Shri Vimal Mahendroo, delivered the keynote address on Digital Standards & Conformity Assessment, 2030, and Beyond.
