The NPL Milestone: New Standards for a Greener India

Minister of State for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh has inaugurated the world’s second National Environmental Standard Laboratory and the fifth National Primary Standard Calibration facility at the CSIR–National Physical Laboratory (NPL).

The inauguration marks a major step toward strengthening India’s environmental monitoring and renewable energy capabilities. The National Environmental Standard Laboratory will enable accurate, India-specific calibration and certification of air pollution monitoring systems, thereby supporting stronger regulatory enforcement and evidence-based policymaking. Emphasising the importance of the initiative, the Minister noted that reliable, traceable, and precise environmental data had long been needed by industries, regulators, and startups alike.

In addition, a new Solar Energy Complex developed in collaboration with Germany’s PTB is expected to position India as a global hub for solar cell calibration. The facility will reduce dependence on overseas certification agencies and enhance confidence in the rapidly expanding domestic solar sector. The Minister underscored that continued reforms in science and technology will be vital for India’s long-term socio-economic development.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.