India is set to implement a repairability index for mobile phones and electronics in a bid to address the escalating issue of e-waste and encourage the production of repair-friendly products.

Led by the Consumer Affairs Ministry, this initiative aims to provide consumers with information on how easily a product can be repaired, potentially positioning India as a global hub for repair services. The government is currently consulting with stakeholders to ensure effective implementation.  The Consumer Affairs Ministry is spearheading the creation of this index, which will evaluate products based on several key criteria. These include the availability of technical documents, ease of disassembly, and the availability and cost of spare parts. This approach mirrors similar initiatives in other countries, such as France's repairability index.  

Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare emphasised the importance of developing a robust repair system as India ascends to become the third-largest economy in the world. She stated, "India can become a repair hub for the world," underlining the potential for significant growth in this sector.  The workshop held on the topic focused on establishing consensus among industry stakeholders on the essential parameters for the repairability index. It also aimed to promote product longevity and improve access to repair information for consumers, enhancing their ability to reuse and maintain their electronic devices.  

Additional Secretary Bharat Khera highlighted the need for transparent and affordable repair solutions, increased consumer awareness, and support for local repair services. Joint Secretary Anupam Mishra raised concerns about the availability of genuine spare parts, compatibility issues with product components, and the lack of information available for consumers to undertake repairs themselves.  

Ajai Chowdhry, Founder, HCL Technologies called for legislative action to enforce change, noting that many products are currently designed with limited repairability. "We need to design products that can be repaired. Without a legal framework, progress will be slow," he said.  The government has also launched a Right to Repair Portal, with 63 participating companies, including 23 from the mobile and electronics sectors. As the third-largest producer of electronic waste globally, after China and the US, India's new initiative aims to reduce e-waste, promote sustainable practices, and create opportunities for third-party repairers within the growing electronics market. (TOI & PTI)