India to Launch Precise Timekeeping System with ISRO & NPL

• India to launch a precise Indian Standard Time (IST) project from 5 locations across the country.
• National Physical Laboratory (NPL) and ISRO to partner on the initiative.
• Move supports India’s push towards automation, Industry 4.0, and global manufacturing leadership.

India is gearing up to launch a national project to deliver highly accurate Indian Standard Time (IST) from five strategic locations. The project will be implemented in collaboration with the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi announced.

The announcement came at the 89th General Meeting of the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), being held in New Delhi. Over 2,000 global experts from the electrical and electronics industry attended the inaugural session.

Joshi highlighted India’s rapid technological transformation, especially in manufacturing. “Our industries are embracing automation and precision, in line with Industry 4.0”, he said. The precise timekeeping system will ensure accurate synchronization across sectors like manufacturing, energy, telecom, and transport.

India has now become the world’s second largest mobile phone producer and is expanding quickly in sectors such as electric vehicles and solar technology.

The minister praised the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) for evolving into a vital force in national development. Over the last 11 years, BIS has moved beyond regulation and become a key partner in shaping India’s future.

He also emphasized the importance of sustainable growth through government missions like the National Green Hydrogen Mission, PM-KUSUM, PM Surya Ghar Yojana, and the FAME India Scheme.

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India recently became the 13th country to issue OIML pattern approval certificates, an important milestone in legal metrology. Joshi also noted that India is on its way to becoming a global hub for semiconductors and electronics, supported by PLI schemes, industrial corridors, and the Semicon India Program.

India is hosting the IEC meeting for the fourth time and now serves as the Global Secretariat for Standardisation in Low Voltage Direct Current (LVDC).