Raising the Bar: Piyush Goyal Rallies Electronics Industry for Safer, Smarter Appliances

In a decisive move to strengthen consumer protection and global competitiveness, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal convened a high-level meeting with key electronics industry stakeholders in Delhi to accelerate the implementation of horizontal Quality Control Orders (QCOs) across the sector.

 

Focus on Horizontal QCOs:

The meeting centered on rolling out horizontal QCOs-regulations that mandate Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification for a broad range of electrical and electronic appliances. Unlike vertical QCOs, which target specific products, horizontal QCOs ensure uniform safety and quality standards across multiple product categories, raising the baseline for the entire industry.

 

Consumer Safety First:

Goyal emphasized the urgent need to enhance the safety of electrical appliances, noting that robust QCO implementation would prevent substandard imports and protect Indian consumers from unsafe products. Manufacturers will now be required to obtain BIS certification and display the BIS Standard Mark, with non-compliance risking legal penalties and product bans.

 

Industry Growth and Global Ambitions:

The minister also explored strategies to make Indian electronics manufacturing more globally competitive. Discussions covered policy support, innovation, and export opportunities, aiming to align Indian standards with international benchmarks and boost the sector’s global footprint.

 

Collaboration and Compliance:

Stakeholders welcomed the QCO initiative, recognizing its potential to foster fair trade, support domestic industry, and drive quality improvements. The Bureau of Indian Standards will serve as the certifying authority, ensuring that products meet stringent safety and reliability criteria.

 

Wider Impact:

With 187 QCOs already notified covering 769 products, the government’s push signals a new era of quality assurance in Indian manufacturing, promising safer appliances for consumers and a stronger foundation for industry growth.

 

Sources: Economic Times, NewsX, NewKerala