Government Remains Firm on Implementing Quality Control Order for Footwear from July 1st, 2023
New Delhi, June 15 (KNN) – The Union Minister for Commerce and Industries, Piyush Goyal, engaged in discussions with stakeholders on Wednesday to ensure the effective implementation of the Quality Control Order (QCO) for 24 footwear products. The Minister reiterated the government’s steadfast commitment to enforcing the QCO, which will come into effect from July 1st, 2023. However, manufacturers adhering to recently revised standards will be granted a grace period of six months, allowing them to comply with the QCOs by January 1st, 2024. Furthermore, the implementation of the QCOs will be phased, with small-scale industries required to comply from January 1st, 2024, and micro-scale industries from July 1st, 2024.
During the meeting, the Minister commended the Quality Control Orders for the leather industry, recognizing their transformative potential for the sector. He emphasized that the QCOs would establish India’s brand and enhance the value of Indian products. Representatives from various leather sector associations welcomed the QCOs, expressing their commitment to their widespread adoption.
The Minister appealed to the Indian industry to collaborate with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) in formulating standards for products that currently fall outside the QCO framework. This collaborative effort will facilitate the inclusion of such products under the QCOs within six months of the standards’ notification.
Moreover, the Minister announced a significant reduction of 80 percent in testing charges for footwear products falling under the QCOs, specifically benefiting certified start-ups and micro-industrial units.
To foster greater interaction, the Minister revealed that starting from June 19th, 2023, BIS would dedicate one hour every working day to video conference sessions. The Director General of BIS, Pramod Kumar Tiwari, was tasked with publicizing this arrangement and ensuring prompt resolution of queries and complaints.
The Minister urged the Indian industry to effectively implement the Quality Control Orders and strive to manufacture and supply footwear of impeccable quality in accordance with Indian Standards, meeting the expectations of consumers. He underscored the pivotal role played by quality and consumer satisfaction in driving the country’s economic growth. The Minister called upon all stakeholders to collaborate closely, strengthening the quality ecosystem in the country and addressing consumer needs.
Also present 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).
