UPSC Prelims 2017 Q39: Indian Economy – International Institutions & Reports
With reference to ‘Quality Council of India (QCI)’, consider the following statements:
1. QCI was set up jointly by the Government of India and the Indian Industry.
2. Chairman of QCI is appointed by the Prime Minister on the recommendations of the industry to
the Government.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2
Explanation
Quality Council of India (QCI)
Set up in 1997 as an autonomous body, registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860.
| Statement | Verdict | Fact |
|---|---|---|
| 1. QCI was set up jointly by the Government of India and the Indian industry | Correct | Partners are ASSOCHAM, CII and FICCI |
| 2. The Chairman is appointed by the Prime Minister on the recommendations of the industry to the Government | Correct | This is how the QCI Chairman is chosen |
Key facts:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Nodal department | DIPP (now DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry |
| Role | National accreditation body; promotes quality in all sectors |
| Boards | NABL (laboratories), NABH (hospitals), NABCB (certification bodies), NABET (education and training) |
Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Statement 2 is also true: the Prime Minister appoints the Chairman.
- (b) Incorrect. Statement 1 is also true: QCI is a joint Government and industry body.
- (c) CORRECT. QCI is a Government-industry body whose Chairman is appointed by the Prime Minister.
- (d) Incorrect. Both statements about the Quality Council of India are true.
Key point
QCI (1997): set up by Government of India with ASSOCHAM, CII, FICCI; Chairman appointed by PM; under DPIIT; runs NABL, NABH, NABCB, NABET.
Remember
QCI = Government + industry; PM appoints Chairman.
Common mistakes
- Thinking QCI is a statutory body; it is a registered society.
- Confusing QCI with BIS, which sets standards under a law.
- Assuming the Chairman is appointed by the Commerce Minister.
Exam tip
QCI accredits; BIS standardises. NABH and NABL are QCI boards.
Sources
- Quality Council of India — About QCI
- Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade — Quality Council of India