Expanding NTH Capabilities for EVs, Renewable Energy and Defence

Union Minister Prahlad Joshi used his speech at the National Testing House’s 115th foundation day to call for a rapid upgrade of the laboratory’s testing facilities. He said NTH should add dedicated capabilities for electric‑vehicle batteries, renewable‑energy equipment, aerospace components, defence hardware and advanced electronics.

Joshi emphasized that a trustworthy domestic testing regime is a cornerstone for India’s rise as a global manufacturing hub. “When a product carries an NTH certificate, buyers worldwide must trust its quality without hesitation,” he asserted.

The minister disclosed that the government is evaluating a corporate conversion of NTH, which would give it a commercial footing and help secure worldwide acceptance of its certificates. This move aims to align NTH with international accreditation standards and make its reports globally marketable.

He also called on state governments and central departments to publicise NTH’s expanded services, noting that several current tenders still specify foreign labs for certification. Strengthening NTH’s domestic reach will aid India’s push for import substitution and self‑reliance.

A newly commissioned EV‑battery testing hub in Bengaluru was highlighted as a key step toward safe and reliable electric‑vehicle deployment. Additional testing infrastructure now includes facilities for coal, solar water heaters, solar photovoltaic modules and pressure cookers, with an online portal that allows users to submit samples and obtain results digitally.

International interest is on the rise, with test requests arriving from Sri Lanka, Dubai, Bahrain and Bhutan, underscoring NTH’s growing global credibility.