India's National Test House set for global expansion: Union Minister

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi on Saturday urged the National Test House (NTH) to evolve into a premier international testing and certification organisation, stressing that India's emergence as a manufacturing powerhouse requires reliable domestic testing infrastructure. Addressing the institution's 115th Foundation Day celebration following the inauguration of a state-of-the-art facility, Joshi underscored the strategic importance of quality assurance in building a robust manufacturing ecosystem. "Quality is the foundation of a strong India," the minister said, highlighting the critical role of standardised testing in the country's industrial growth.

Joshi virtually inaugurated several key facilities and initiatives across the NTH network aimed at expanding testing capabilities and improving accessibility nationwide. The minister noted that the institution faced an existential crisis around 2012 but has since demonstrated resilience and forward momentum, attributing its revival to the government's manufacturing-focused vision. He stressed that NTH must scale its operations proportionately to match the growing demands of India's expanding manufacturing sector.

The National Test House, a central government institution under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, plays a crucial role in certifying products and ensuring quality standards across various industries. The expansion of NTH's facilities and capabilities is expected to strengthen India's position in global trade by ensuring products meet international quality benchmarks while reducing reliance on foreign testing services.