The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has partnered with Kendriya Vidyalayas to integrate consumer awareness into the educational curriculum. This initiative represents a significant step towards nurturing knowledgeable and responsible future citizens. The endeavour was highlighted during BIS's 78th Foundation Day celebrations, where Deputy Commissioner of KVS Chandrashekhar Azad highlighted the importance of such activities in fostering academic excellence and social responsibility among students.
“Every student must understand standard marks like ISI and Hallmark. This knowledge goes beyond classrooms, enabling students to educate their parents and communities about quality standards,” Azad stated in an exclusive interview with Business North East (BNE).
The partnership between BIS and KVS is underpinned by a shared vision of embedding consumer awareness into the education framework. According to Azad, the initiative aligns seamlessly with the current curriculum. "In Years 9 and 10, we already have chapters on consumer awareness. By introducing concepts like ISI marks and Hallmarks, students not only learn their rights but also understand how to protect them," he explained.
The programme complements theoretical knowledge with practical exposure to product standardisation, equipping students to identify and select quality products.
Kendriya Vidyalayas are renowned for their holistic approach to education, which balances academic achievements with social consciousness about environmental and societal issues. “Our schools conduct numerous activities beyond traditional academics. These programmes encourage experiential learning,” Azad elaborated.
One key initiative is the BIS Club, which immerses students in the significance of standardisation. Similarly, eco-clubs and other extracurricular activities foster environmental awareness and social responsibility. “These clubs are instrumental in helping students understand their duties towards the environment and society,” Azad added.
Azad shared a personal anecdote to illustrate the rising social responsibility among younger generations. "Even as a young child, my daughter would remind us not to throw waste outside. It’s a small example, but it reflects a larger trend of young minds adopting socially responsible habits," he said.
This mindset shift aligns with national campaigns like Swachh Bharat Abhiyan which encourages collective responsibility for cleanliness and hygiene. Through initiatives like BIS awareness programmes, students extend this consciousness to consumer rights and product quality.
Maintaining KVS schools’ high educational and infrastructural standards requires detailed financial planning. Azad provided insights into the funding model, noting, “The Government of India funds the infrastructure, while operational costs are covered by fees collected from students. However, no fees are charged for activities conducted here, ensuring inclusivity for all.” This model enables students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds to access world-class education and initiatives.
The KVS-BIS partnership marks a milestone in embedding practical topics such as consumer awareness, environmental sustainability, and standardisation into education. Kendriya Vidyalayas combine theoretical learning with real-world experiences to equip students with the courage and ability to address contemporary challenges.
“Such initiatives don’t just benefit students but create a ripple effect within their communities,” Azad observed, highlighting the broader societal impact of the collaboration.
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The partnership underscores the growing synergy between education and industry standards. By instilling awareness early on, students are prepared to demand higher-quality products and services as future consumers. This collaboration also lays the groundwork for further partnerships between educational institutions and regulatory bodies, fostering a culture of quality consciousness in line with India’s aspirations to become a global economic leader.
As the KVS-BIS partnership develops, plans are in motion to broaden the programme’s scope, potentially including topics such as sustainability standards and ethical consumption. “The goal is not just to educate but to empower students with knowledge that inspires action,” Azad stated during the BNE interview.
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