With growing e-waste, resource scarcity, and rising repair costs, India is exploring structured solutions like a Repairability Index (RI) to empower consumers and promote a circular economy.

Repairability Index Framework: A Consumer-Centric Move

• A Framework: The Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA) has submitted a Framework on Repairability Index (RI).
• Basis: RI scores mobile phones and electronic appliances based on – Spare part availability, Repair cost, Software update access & Repair information disclosure

Why Focus on Repairability?

• Declining Product Durability: Older appliances (e.g., washing machines, ACs) had longer lifespans.
  • Newer ones face more failures due to planned obsolescence & inferior materials and cost-cutting, driven by metal shortages and price wars.
• Material Constraints: India is a net importer of metals.
  • Rising metal prices (e.g., copper) are leading to leaner designs with less durability.

Repair as an Economic and Environmental Priority

• Consumer Impact: Durable products = “durable wealth” (term used by U.S. lawmakers).
  • Longer life = lower ownership costs, better value for money.
• Environmental Benefits: Supports e-waste reduction and circular economy goals.
  • Reduces demand for “virgin metals” from mining.

Right to Repair: Global and Indian Context

• Right to Repair: A movement advocating freedom to repair goods through third-party services or self-repair, without corporate restrictions.
• India’s Approach: India’s Right to Repair portal lists Authorised service centres & Repair manuals by manufacturers.
  • India’s approach is more industry-friendly compared to Western nations.
• U.S. Example: Companies resist third-party repair (e.g., McDonald’s ice cream machines).
  • U.S. groups push for access to parts, open repair ecosystems.

Balancing Innovation and Consumer Rights

• Government’s Position: RI scoring will be pursued without impeding innovation & ease of doing business
• Time to Support: Third-party repair & Consumer freedom of choice

Conclusion

India’s Repairability Index offers a chance to align consumer rights, sustainability, and industry accountability. A balanced, transparent system could make repairable products the new standard for a sustainable digital future.

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