The IT industry faces fresh challenges in the form of labeling requirements, augmented fee structures, standardization of processes and surveillance norms just when it is on the growth vortex. These series of fresh notifications by BIS disrupts manufacturing plans, increases costs and interrupts the global supply chain.
For instance, the new labeling requirements proposed by BIS are unworkable.The new labeling requirements are in contrast to global pre-requisites and Indian companies cannot change the entire production line to incorporate the new requirements. BIS is not consulting the Industry prior to issuing new product guidelines. The notice period is not enough to comply with the new guidelines.
Amar Babu, President, MAIT comments, “Manufacturers across the world use printed stickers. BIS could have consulted with the industry on best practices rather than asking companies to comply with regulatory framework. Even if the framework is postponed to July, it is impossible to meet such deadlines. If an ISI mark on a water bottle goes well with a label sticker, why does BIS want an IT product embossed?”Â
Anwar Shirpurwala, Executive Director, MAIT added, “Any new change in product guidelines, internal or external, usually requires 10-12 weeks because changes have to be incorporated in the manufacturing processes and production schedules need to be shifted to embark global supply chains and BIS needs to understand these timelines before levying labeling requirements on companies. Industry will be more than happy to help BIS understand the nuances of such complex processes provided they have prior consultations with us.”
According to BIS notification, the font size of letters of statement shall be 12 or 1/4th the size of the brand name; however, the size requirements are impractical, especially for smaller products.
Â
