Rajshahi: Experts at a participatory discussion here today unequivocally called for giving utmost emphasis on following precise standards in every sphere of life for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In order to achieve these goals, the cooperation of various public and private partners, and the use of all the available tools, including the conformity assessment and international standards, are urgently required.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, in the present context, unhygienic, spurious, and substandard consumer products, particularly food, are being adjudged as breeding grounds for various non-infectious diseases like cancer, stroke, cardiac arrest, and kidney ailments. The Divisional Office of Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institutions (BSTI) organised the discussion at the conference hall of the Divisional Commissioner Office in observance of the World Standard Day-2025.
The theme for this year’s celebration, ‘A Shared Vision for a Better World: Standards for Sustainable Development Goals,’ emphasizes the crucial role of international standards as enablers of cooperation and progress. Commissioner of Rajshahi division Khondoker Azim Ahmed addressed the meeting as the chief guest, while BSTI Director Jahura Shikder was in the chair. Other notable speakers included Commissioner of Rajshahi Metropolitan Police Muhammad Abu Sufian, Deputy Commissioner of Rajshahi Afia Akhter, and President of Rajshahi Chamber of Commerce and Industries Masudur Rahman.
BSTI Director Jahura Shikder illustrated the significance of the day and the importance of maintaining quality and best handling practices in consumer products through her multimedia presentation. Disseminating her expertise on the theme, she highlighted the aspects of ensuring quality and standards everywhere in civic life.
Chief Guest Khondoker Azim Ahmed suggested improving the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of operations, complying with legislative and regulatory requirements, safeguarding health, and protecting the environment. He called upon the BSTI to intensify its market inspection and monitoring activities to tackle adulteration and stop the marketing of fake and substandard products.