The authorities have made it mandatory for asbestos or fibre cement-based products to adhere to quality control regulations in an effort to restrict the influx of inferior goods and enhance local production. According to the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), the 'Asbestos or Fibre Cement based Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024' was unveiled on March 6, underlining the necessity for these items to bear the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) mark before being manufactured, distributed, imported, or stored. This move is intended to take effect six months after the publication of the notification in the Official Gazette, signifying a significant step towards ensuring the quality and safety of such products available in the market.
The government's initiative extends support to small and micro industries in adhering to the quality control orders to facilitate a smoother transition and improve overall business operations. To accommodate the specific needs of these industries, relaxations have been granted, allowing small industries an additional nine months and micro industries an additional twelve months to comply with the stipulated norms. Failure to comply with the BIS Act can lead to severe consequences, such as imprisonment for up to two years or a fine starting at Rs 2 lakh for initial violations, emphasizing the seriousness of maintaining quality standards in the industry. Additionally, the DPIIT is engaging in various initiatives aimed at enhancing awareness and understanding of quality standards among both consumers and manufacturers, contributing to a more quality-conscious industry environment. The enforcement of mandatory Quality Control Orders plays a crucial role in not only preventing the circulation of substandard products but also in promoting fair trade practices and ensuring the well-being of consumers and the environment in the long term. This initiative follows previous orders regarding several other product categories, including smart meters, welding equipment, cookware, fire safety equipment, and household appliances, demonstrating the government's commitment to upholding standards across various sectors of the industry.