Whalesbook
Driving Manufacturing Excellence
Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare declared on Tuesday that quality must be the cornerstone of Indian manufacturing if the nation is to succeed on the global stage. Speaking at a conference, Khare underscored that modern competitiveness hinges on quality, safety, and standards compliance, not merely cost or scale.
Quality Control Orders as Catalysts
Khare positioned Quality Control Orders (QCOs) as vital tools for enhancing India's manufacturing ecosystem. These orders, she explained, are designed to foster quality-conscious production, bolster consumer safety, and ensure product reliability, thereby preventing the influx of substandard goods. Currently, 723 products are mandated for compulsory Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification.
Industry Seeks Global Recognition for BIS
Industry body PHDCCI echoed these sentiments, urging the government to secure international equivalence for BIS standards. Sunil Mangla, Chair of PHDCCI's Manufacturing Committee, pointed out that exporters often face significant burdens due to differing requirements in major markets like the US (UL/NRTL), Europe (CE), and Japan (JIS). He stressed that BIS certification is not automatically recognized in these regions, necessitating costly, country-specific approvals.
Tackling Testing and Infrastructure Bottlenecks
Mangla also highlighted lengthy product testing timelines, which can stretch for three to four months, as a major impediment. He proposed expanding testing lab capacity or certifying reliable private labs to expedite the process. Secretary Khare responded positively, directing her office to compile a list of certifiable private labs within two weeks. Further industry suggestions included better alignment between academic curricula and industry needs, alongside a sustained push for infrastructure development.
Embracing Technology and Human Capital
Anshuman Singhania, Managing Director of JK Tyre and Industries, shared his company's experience with Industry 4.0, noting increased productivity and global competitiveness through machine communication. Khare acknowledged the role of technology, including BIS's modernization efforts in areas like smart manufacturing and cybersecurity. However, she cautioned that technology alone is insufficient, emphasizing the critical importance of human capital, institutional capacity, robust quality ecosystems, and ethical business practices for true manufacturing excellence. India, she concluded, is poised not just to be a manufacturing economy but a trusted global supplier of high-quality, innovative products.