Department of Consumer Affairs sets up committee to develop comprehensive framework on right to repair

The Department of Consumer Affairs has set up a committee to develop a comprehensive framework on the right to repair. The aim of the framework is to empower consumers and product buyers in the local market and harmonize trade between the original equipment manufacturers and the third-party buyers and sellers. Its aim is also to emphasize developing sustainable consumption of products and reduction in e-waste.

Once the framework is rolled out in India, it will become a game-changer both for the sustainability of the products and as well as serve as a catalyst for employment generation through Aatmanirbhar Bharat. The committee chaired by Additional Secretary in the  Department,  Nidhi Khare held its first meeting yesterday wherein important sectors for the right to repair were identified. They include Farming Equipment, Mobile Phones, Tablets, Consumer Durables, Automobiles, and Automobile Equipment.

During the meeting, the pertinent issues highlighted include companies avoiding the publication of manuals that can help users make repairs easily.  During the deliberations, it was felt that the tech companies should provide complete knowledge and access to manuals, schematics, and software updates, and the software license should not limit the transparency of the product in sale.  The parts and tools to service devices, including diagnostic tools should be made available to third parties, including individuals so that the product can be repaired if there are minor glitches.   Besides,  the international best practices, steps that have been taken by other countries, and how the same could be included in the Indian scenario were also discussed in the meeting. The right to repair has been recognized in many countries across the globe including the U.S.A, U.K, and European Union.