New Delhi, June 15 (KNN) – The Union Minister for Commerce and Industries, Piyush Goyal, held discussions with stakeholders on Wednesday to ensure the smooth implementation of the Quality Control Order (QCO) for 24 footwear products. The Minister emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to enforcing the QCO from July 1st, 2023. However, manufacturers producing goods according to recently revised standards will be given an additional six months, until January 1st, 2024, to comply with the QCOs. The QCOs will be rolled out in stages, with small-scale industries adhering to them from January 1st, 2024, and micro-scale industries from July 1st, 2024.
During the meeting, the Minister hailed the Quality Control Orders for the leather industry as a transformative step forward. He expressed his belief that the QCOs would establish India’s brand and add value to Indian products. Representatives from various leather sector associations welcomed the QCOs, affirming their commitment to their adoption.
The Minister urged the Indian industry to collaborate with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) in formulating standards for products that are currently not covered by the QCOs. This collaboration would enable the inclusion of these products under the QCOs within six months of the notification of the standards.
Furthermore, the Minister announced a significant reduction of 80 percent in testing charges for footwear products covered by the QCOs, specifically for certified start-ups and micro-industrial units.
To enhance engagement, the Minister disclosed that starting June 19th, 2023, BIS would allocate one hour every working day for video conference interactions. The Director General of BIS, Pramod Kumar Tiwari, was entrusted with publicizing this initiative and ensuring that queries and complaints receive prompt attention.
The Minister called upon the Indian industry to diligently implement the Quality Control Orders, emphasizing the production and supply of footwear that adheres to Indian Standards and meets consumer expectations. He underscored the crucial role of quality and consumer satisfaction in driving the country’s economic growth. The Minister urged all stakeholders to collaborate closely in strengthening the quality ecosystem and fulfilling consumer needs.
In attendance during the meeting were Rajesh Kumar Singh, Secretary of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) at the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and Rajeev Singh Thakur, Additional Secretary (DPIIT).”