DPIIT Extends Quality Control Order 2024 for Cookware and Utensils
The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) in India has announced an extension for the implementation of the Quality Control Order (QCO) 2024. This decision follows consultations with industry stakeholders to address challenges in implementing the QCO and includes several relaxations.
About the Quality Control Order 2024
The QCO 2024 focuses on Cookware, Utensils, and Cans for Foods and Beverages. It is part of DPIIT’s initiatives to enhance the quality ecosystem, attract investments, and foster entrepreneurial talent by prioritizing product quality.
Relaxations Introduced
To facilitate ease of doing business, DPIIT has introduced exemptions for very small micro-enterprises registered under the Udyam portal, where investment in plant and machinery does not exceed Rs 25 lakh, and turnover does not exceed Rs 2 crore. Additionally, a six-month relaxation is provided to clear legacy stock, and exemptions are made for importing cans filled with various substances and for 200 units of cookware and utensils intended for research and development.
Implementation Timeline
The QCO, initially set to be effective from September 1, 2024, for large and medium-scale manufacturers, will now be implemented from April 1, 2025. For small enterprises, the effective date is July 1, 2025, and for micro-enterprises, it is October 1, 2025. This extension allows domestic manufacturers to align with enhanced quality standards, contributing to India’s economic goals of self-reliance and manufacturing excellence.
Compliance with these standards is expected to promote growth in performance, durability, and reliability, positioning India as a hub for premium quality goods through a strong industry-government partnership.
Doubts Revealed
DPIIT -: DPIIT stands for the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade. It is a part of the Indian government that helps businesses grow and trade better.
Quality Control Order (QCO) -: A Quality Control Order is a set of rules that ensures products meet certain standards of quality. It helps make sure that the things we use, like cookware and utensils, are safe and good to use.
Cookware and Utensils -: Cookware and utensils are items used in the kitchen for cooking and serving food. Cookware includes pots and pans, while utensils include spoons, forks, and knives.
Micro-enterprises -: Micro-enterprises are very small businesses, often run by a few people or a family. They usually have limited resources and operate on a small scale.
Legacy stock -: Legacy stock refers to old inventory or products that were made before new rules or standards were introduced. Businesses need time to sell these products before switching to new standards.
Self-reliance -: Self-reliance means being able to rely on oneself or one’s own resources. In this context, it refers to India aiming to produce more goods within the country rather than importing them from other places.