Framework on Repairability Index (RI)
The Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA) recently submitted a report on a “Framework on Repairability Index (RI) in Mobile and Electronic Sector” to the government. This framework aims to assign a score to consumer electronics based on the ease of repair. Criteria include:
- Availability of spare parts
- Cost of repair
- Software updates
- Availability of repair information
Why Focus on Repairing Products?
The consumer electronics market faces issues such as planned obsolescence and cost-cutting on raw materials, which impact product durability. Factors contributing to this include:
- Companies cutting corners due to rising metal costs and price competition
- Reduction in metal content in appliances
- India being a net importer of metals, increasing pressure on maintaining electronics
Globally, there is a push towards making appliances more durable, with laws like the one proposed by U.S. lawmaker Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, which would require displaying average maintenance costs. This ties into promoting e-waste recycling and reducing the demand for newly mined “virgin” metals.
The Right to Repair
The right to repair seeks to give consumers the flexibility to repair their products. In India, the DoCA has launched a right to repair portal listing authorised service centres and repair literature. However, this contrasts with the U.S., where consumer groups resist companies monopolizing repairs.
Key aspects include:
- Access to spare parts and repair services
- Protection for consumers using third-party repair services
- Industry's concern over losing repair revenue
Government and Industry Dynamics
The RI framework committee included industry groups and manufacturers but also consumer advocates like Pushpa Girimaji. The government aims to balance scoring with maintaining innovation and business ease. Consumer rights advocates emphasize the need for third-party repair services and consumer choice.
