Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr. Jitendra Singh, inaugurated two scientifically significant facilities at the CSIR–National Physical Laboratory (NPL) during its 80th Foundation Day celebrations. This inauguration marks a significant milestone in India's environmental governance and solar energy metrology capabilities.
The Minister inaugurated the world’s second National Environmental Standard Laboratory and the fifth National Primary Standard Facility for Solar Cell Calibration. He highlighted that the environmental laboratory signifies a substantial advancement in India's environmental governance framework, while the solar calibration facility positions India among the elite in global solar metrology.
These state-of-the-art facilities enhance India’s capacity for precise, traceable, and India-specific measurement standards.
Dr. Jitendra Singh described India’s premier scientific institutions as monuments of the 20th and 21st centuries, emphasizing CSIR-NPL’s unique legacy. Established prior to India's independence, it became a cornerstone of the post-independence scientific architecture. The Minister underscored that CSIR predates independent India, making NPL one of the earliest among its 37 laboratories.
He recalled that prominent national leaders, including Dr. Syama Prasad Mukherjee and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, mentored the institution, where history and science intersect.
Highlighting NPL’s contribution to national integration, the Minister noted that Indian Standard Time was synchronized using the atomic clock housed at NPL for several decades. This silent yet crucial contribution has significantly influenced everyday life across the nation.
Dr. Singh emphasized the need to showcase institutions like NPL to students and citizens to inspire scientific curiosity and foster innovation-oriented thinking.
The National Environmental Standard Laboratory will provide reliable calibration of air pollution monitoring instruments tailored to Indian climatic conditions, thereby supporting regulators, industries, and startups.
The National Primary Standard Facility for Solar Cell Calibration, developed in collaboration with PTB Germany, employs a laser-based Differential Spectral Responsivity system with the lowest global uncertainty. This facility will reduce reliance on foreign certification, conserve foreign exchange, and bolster investor confidence in India’s solar sector.
Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Director General of CSIR, urged NPL to aim for global leadership, emphasizing its growing strategic importance in timekeeping, metrology, and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.
Q1. What is the significance of the new facilities at CSIR-NPL?
Answer: The new facilities enhance India’s capabilities in environmental governance and solar energy metrology, positioning India as a leader in these fields.
Q2. What role does CSIR-NPL play in Indian Standard Time?
Answer: CSIR-NPL maintains Indian Standard Time using atomic clocks, ensuring synchronization that impacts daily life across the country.
Q3. How do the new facilities support environmental governance?
Answer: The National Environmental Standard Laboratory allows for accurate calibration of pollution monitoring instruments, aiding regulators and industries in environmental management.
Q4. What is the impact of solar cell calibration standards?
Answer: Solar cell calibration standards are crucial for quality assurance in photovoltaic systems, enhancing confidence and reducing dependence on foreign certifications.
Q5. How does CSIR-NPL contribute to scientific innovation?
Answer: CSIR-NPL fosters scientific innovation by providing essential standards and measurements that support various sectors, including solar energy and environmental monitoring.
Question 1: What did Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurate at CSIR-NPL?
A) New research center
B) National Environmental Standard Laboratory and solar cell calibration facility
C) Educational institution
D) Industrial plant
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: What is the primary role of the National Environmental Standard Laboratory?
A) To conduct educational programs
B) To provide calibration for pollution monitoring instruments
C) To develop new technologies
D) To manage renewable energy sources
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: Who mentored the establishment of CSIR-NPL?
A) Jawaharlal Nehru
B) Dr. Syama Prasad Mukherjee and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
C) Mahatma Gandhi
D) C.V. Raman
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: What technology is utilized in the solar cell calibration facility?
A) Thermal energy system
B) Laser-based Differential Spectral Responsivity system
C) Solar panel technology
D) Wind energy system
Correct Answer: B
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