Introduction
The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), a key constituent of the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, has taken a significant step toward enhancing manufacturing quality standards in India. DPIIT recently issued a noteworthy Quality Control Order (QCO) that specifically targets ‘Flux Cored Solder Wire.’ This pivotal notification, dated September 18, 2023, is poised to come into full effect six months from its publication in the E-Gazette.
Understanding Flux Cored Solder Wire QCO
The Flux Cored Solder Wire (Quality Control) Order, 2023, encapsulates a specific type of solder wire that distinguishes itself by having flux at its core. Flux plays an indispensable role in soldering activities across sectors such as electronics, automotive, telecommunications, and various engineering domains. Despite the seemingly straightforward soldering process, it is inherently critical, with the quality of flux cored solder wire bearing paramount importance. Any shortcomings in this regard can have profound implications on the quality and safety of products, particularly within the electronic and automotive industries.
Significance of QCO Implementation
The implementation of this QCO holds tremendous significance, as it serves to ensure not only the safety of consumers but also the elevation of manufacturing quality standards within the nation. Importantly, it plays a pivotal role in curbing the influx of sub-standard products into India, thereby safeguarding the interests of domestic small and micro-industries.
Relaxations for Small and Micro Units
Recognizing the unique challenges faced by small and micro-industries, the government has extended relaxations in terms of compliance timelines. Small-scale units will be granted an additional three months, while micro-units will receive a more substantial extension of six months, allowing them to effectively adapt to the QCO requirements.
Government’s Vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’
These initiatives, combined with the development of quality testing labs and comprehensive product manuals, significantly contribute to the creation of a quality-centric ecosystem within India. The overarching goal of the government is to produce world-class, high-quality products within the nation, aligning seamlessly with the vision of an “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) championed by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.
DPIIT’s Unwavering Focus on Quality Control Regime
DPIIT remains steadfast in its commitment to establishing a robust quality control regime that extends to various industrial sectors under its purview. Quality Control Orders (QCOs) are instrumental in elevating manufacturing quality standards, enhancing the reputation of ‘Made in India’ products, and actively deterring the use of sub-standard imports.
Impact of QCO Implementation
With the implementation of QCOs, a sweeping transformation is set to occur. The manufacturing, storage, and sale of non-Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certified products will be unequivocally prohibited under the BIS Act, 2016. Violations of these stipulations may result in penalties, including imprisonment and fines, as outlined by the act.
Conclusion
DPIIT’s introduction of the Quality Control Order for Flux Cored Solder Wire underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to elevating product quality, safeguarding the interests of consumers, and propelling the “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) initiative. Through a laser-focused approach on quality control measures, the government seeks to solidify India’s position as a producer of impeccable, high-quality products while discouraging the utilization of sub-standard imports. This multifaceted initiative is seamlessly aligned with the broader vision of nurturing a self-reliant and prosperous India.
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MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY
(Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade)
ORDER
New Delhi, the 18th September, 2023
S.O. 4092(E).— In exercise of the powers conferred by section 16 of the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016 (11 of 2016), the Central Government, after consulting the Bureau of Indian Standards, is of the opinion that it is necessary or expedient so to do in the public interest, hereby makes the following Order, namely:-
1. Short title and commencement. – (1) This order may be called the Flux Cored Solder Wire (Quality Control) Order, 2023.
(2) It shall come into force on the expiry of six months from the date of publication of this notification in the Official Gazette:
2. Compulsory use of Standard Mark. – Goods or articles specified in column (1) of the Table shall conform to the corresponding Indian Standard mentioned in column (2) of the Table and shall bear the Standard Mark under a license from the Bureau as per Scheme-1 of Schedule-II of the Bureau of Indian Standards (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018:
Provided that nothing in this order shall apply to goods or articles manufactured domestically for export.
Provided that in relation to micro enterprises, as defined in clauses (h) and (m), respectively of section 2 of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Act, 2006 (27 of 2006), it shall come into force on the expiry of twelve months from the date of publication of this notification.
Provided that in relation to small enterprises, as defined in clauses (h) and (m), respectively of section 2 of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Act, 2006 (27 of 2006), it shall come into force on the expiry of nine months from the date of publication of this notification.
3. Certification and enforcement authority. – The Bureau shall be the certifying and enforcing authority for the goods or articles specified in column (1) of the Table.
4. Penalty for contravention. – Any person who contravenes the provisions of this Order shall be punishable under the provisions of the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016.
TABLE
| Goods or articles | Indian Standard | Title of Indian Standard |
|
(1) |
(2) |
(3) |
| Flux Cored Solder Wire | 1921:2005 | Flux Cored Solder Wire |
Note: For the purposes of this Table, the latest version of Indian Standards including the amendments thereof, as notified by the Bureau of Indian Standards from time to time shall apply.
[F. No. P- 29026/20/2023-LEI]
SANJIV, Jt. Secy.
