The Indian government intends to make it mandatory for manufacturers of cars, mobile phones, and other consumer items to disclose with customers product details necessary for self- or third-party repair out of concern that they are monopolizing the repair and spare parts market.
A group led by Additional Secretary Nidhi Khare has been established by the Department of Consumer Affairs, according to a statement released on Thursday, to build a complete framework on the “Right to Repair.”
The government considers that this form of monopoly on repair procedures violates the customer’s “right to choose” because manufacturers typically retain proprietary control over spare components, including over their design. In addition, the warranty cards for a number of devices warn buyers against having their products fixed by a company that is not authorised by the manufacturer.
According to a statement, the “Right to Repair” was created because it is only natural for customers to own a product completely after purchase. As a result, consumers “should be able to repair and modify the product with ease and at reasonable cost, without being captive to the whims of manufacturers for repairs,” the statement reads.
The proposed framework will aim to reduce e-waste, empower consumers, and harmonize commerce between original equipment manufacturers and third-party buyers and sellers.
The group’s first meeting, when the committee selected the essential sectors for the “Right to Repair,” took place on July 13. A list of industries was provided, including farming equipment, mobile and tablet devices, consumer goods, and transportation and automotive equipment.
The agency also pointed out that digital warranty cards make sure that customers who purchase goods from “non-recognized” businesses forfeit their right to make a warranty claim. In order for the product to be fixed in the event of minor flaws, third parties, including individuals, should have access to the components and tools needed to service devices, including diagnostic tools.
The framework will reportedly “change the game” for the sustainability of the products once it is implemented in India and act as a catalyst for job creation through Aatmanirbhar Bharat by permitting outside repair services
Members of the meeting also talked about how to incorporate international best practices and actions made by other nations into the Indian situation.
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