The CSIR-National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL) in New Delhi, along with the Metrology Society of India (MSI), recently honored World Metrology Day on May 20th. Metrology, or the science of measurement and its application, is commemorated globally on this day each year. The celebration acknowledges the important work that people in intergovernmental and national metrology organizations do year-round.
About World Metrology Day
World Metrology Day marks the anniversary of the signing of the Metre Convention in 1875. This significant treaty provided the framework for a universal system of measurement. It set the foundation for worldwide uniformity in measuring units and practices, contributing to advancements in science, industry, and trade.
2021 Theme: “Metrology in the Digital Era”
This year’s theme highlighted the role of metrology in today’s digital world. As digital technology continues to transform our society rapidly, metrology tools and methods are also evolving. This dynamic intersection between metrology and digital technology was jointly announced as the theme by the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM) and the International Organisation of Legal Metrology (OIML).
About the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM)
Formed as part of the Metre Convention in 1875, the BIPM facilitated international cooperation in metrology. Its establishment marked the beginning of standardizing measurement practices at an international level. Today, BIPM serves as the hub of a global network of national metrology institutes (NMIs). These NMIs work tirelessly to realize and spread traceability to the International System of Units (SI) to nationally accredited laboratories and various industries.
About the International Organisation of Legal Metrology (OIML)
Established in 1955, the OIML is an Intergovernmental Treaty Organization that aims to harmonize legal metrology procedures worldwide. The OIML has developed a comprehensive technical structure whose primary focus is ensuring consistent regulations and controls among national metrological services.
About CSIR-National Physical Laboratory (NPL-India)
The CSIR-NPL, India’s National Metrology Institute (NMI), was established by an act of Parliament. As the custodian of “National Standards,” NPL-India retains the responsibility of disseminating measurements to meet the country’s needs. This includes maintaining the standards of SI units in India and calibrating the national standards of weights and measures. The work done by CSIR-NPL solidifies India’s place in the global metrology community.
World Metrology Day serves as a reminder of the significance and impact of standardized measurement practices globally. Be it in the field of science, industry or commerce, metrology plays a key role, evolving with the digital era and advancements in technology to maintain accuracy and uniformity in measurements.
