The Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA), Government of India, has received the report from the Committee formed for the reparability Index (RI) Framework

India is the third-largest generator of electronic waste in the world, after China and the United States. The rise in electronic usage, along with restricted repair choices, has greatly added to this problem.

From 2022 to 2025, complaints from consumers concerning mobile phones and tablets rose from 19,057 to 22,864, highlighting the demand for enhanced repair accessibility and transparency in after-sale services.

In September 2024, the DoCA formed a committee led by Bharat Khera to create a framework for the reparability Index.

Main Suggestions of the Committee

Self-Reported Reparability Ratings: Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) ought to evaluate and announce the reparability of their items according to standardized standards, reducing extra compliance responsibilities.

Showing the RI: The Reparability Index must be clearly exhibited at retail locations, on online shopping sites, and through QR codes on product packaging to help consumers make informed decisions.

Scoring Criteria: Reparability is evaluated based on six fundamental parameters.

Key Elements: The structure must emphasize parts that commonly fail and are essential for device performance, such as batteries, display units, microphones, and speakers.

Stakeholder Involvement: The committee collaborated with a diverse range of stakeholders, such as manufacturers, industry organizations, consumer advocacy groups, and government officials, to establish a thorough and inclusive framework.

Importance of the Reparability Index

Decrease in Electronic Waste: Improving repair opportunities will prolong product longevity, thus lowering the amount of e-waste produced.

Circular Economy: The RI promotes circular economy principles by advocating for the reuse and repair of items, thereby minimizing the necessity for extracting new resources.

Local Repair Sectors: Enhanced availability of repair resources and components will strengthen local repair enterprises, aiding economic development and job opportunities.

Worldwide Perspective on the Right to Repair

United Kingdom: Repair Rights Legislation 2021 pertains to household devices (e.g., refrigerators, washing machines, televisions). Producers are required to provide replacement parts for a duration of up to 10 years.

France: Implemented a compulsory Reparability Index across five categories: smartphones, laptops, washing machines, televisions, and lawnmowers.

Portal for Repair Rights India

Introduced in 2022, the Right to Repair Portal functions as a unified platform offering consumers details about repair services in four industries:

Difficulties

Technical Difficulty: Contemporary electronic gadgets frequently exhibit small and complicated structures, complicating repairs and requiring specific tools.

Manufacturer Hesitance: Certain OEMs voice apprehensions regarding intellectual property protections and the possible influence on product safety and efficiency.