Empowering Consumers: A New Repairability Index to Foster Sustainable Tech Practices

The Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA) has formed a committee of experts to develop a Repairability Index. This index aims to empower consumers by providing transparency on product repair information and fostering a sustainable technology industry. The committee's recommendations are expected by November 15.

The Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA) has set up a committee of experts to establish a Repairability Index, designed to empower consumers and encourage sustainable practices in the technology industry.

Chaired by DoCA Additional Secretary Bharat Khera, the committee aims to give consumers easy access to repair information for their products, promoting transparency and sustainability in tech.

A National Workshop on the Right to Repair in the Mobile and Electronics Sector held on August 29 brought together industry stakeholders to create a framework for assessing components for the Repairability Index, facilitating longer product lifespans and better access to repair information.

''The Repairability Index framework will offer consumers essential information about product repairability and provide seamless access to spare parts, enabling informed purchasing decisions,'' said the DoCA in a statement.

The committee, which includes representatives from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), and industry members, is tasked with delivering a comprehensive report on the Repairability Index by November 15.

Key components of the framework include comprehensive repair information, accessible spare parts, affordable tools, modular product design, and ensuring economic feasibility for consumers.

''This standardized assessment will create an ecosystem where consumers can compare products and make choices aligned with mindful consumption and sustainability,'' the DoCA's statement added.

(With inputs from agencies.)