National Workshop on Right to Repair Framework for Mobile and Electronics Sectors Held by Department of Consumer Affairs

New Delhi:  The Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA), Government of India, organized a landmark National Workshop today focused on the development of a Right to Repair Framework for the mobile and electronics sectors. The event aimed to build consensus among industry stakeholders on key parameters like accessing repairability indexes, promoting product longevity, and ensuring that repair information is democratized for consumers. This initiative is expected to enhance consumer experiences by facilitating the repair and reuse of mobile and electronic products.

The primary goal of the workshop was to tackle the current challenges consumers face when repairing mobile devices and electronics. The DoCA stressed the importance of creating products designed to last, rather than pushing consumers to replace them due to limited repair options or high costs.

In her address, Smt. Nidhi Khare, Secretary, Department of Consumer Affairs, emphasized the need to address planned obsolescence practices and manufacturers’ reluctance to share essential repair information or provide affordable spare parts. These practices often leave consumers with abandoned devices or push them towards risky counterfeit parts from grey markets. High repair costs were another major concern, leading to consumer dissatisfaction and delays.

Shri Bharat Khera, Additional Secretary of the Department, echoed the need for transparent and affordable repair solutions, highlighting the importance of empowering consumers with information. He emphasized developing a strong Right to Repair framework that supports local repairers and encourages sustainable practices within the tech industry.

The DoCA has already launched the Right to Repair Portal India, which serves as a hub for repair-related information. The portal offers access to product manuals, DIY repair videos, pricing details for spare parts, and authorized service centers across India. To date, 63+ companies, including 23 from the mobile and electronics sectors, have joined the portal, offering vital repair resources.

The workshop featured three technical sessions where experts discussed the need to close repair gaps, integrate global best practices, and promote sustainable product design. The discussions focused on establishing a repairability index, generating employment through initiatives like Aatmanirbhar Bharat, and shifting from a “use and dispose” economy to a “circular economy.”