PIB Summary - 5th May, 2025 | PIB (Press Information Bureau) Summary - UPSC PDF Download

Report for Framework on Repairability Index (RI) in Mobile and Electronic Sector submitted

Context and Purpose

• The Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA) has introduced a framework to tackle issues related to repair accessibility in the mobile and electronic sector.
• The initial phase of implementation will focus on smartphones and tablets.
• This initiative is a response to the growing number of consumer complaints regarding repair difficulties, which have increased from approximately 19,000 in 2022-23 to 22,800 in 2024-25.
• The framework aims to promote the Right to Repair principles and align with the goals of a circular economy, supporting sustainable and responsible consumption practices.

Committee Formation and Composition

• The committee responsible for the framework was composed of a diverse range of stakeholders, including:
• Major tech companies such as Apple, Samsung, Google, Dell, HP, Vivo, and HMD.
• Industry associations like the India Cellular and Electronics Association (ICEA) and the Manufacturers' Association for Information Technology (MAIT).
• Consumer organizations such as EPIC.
• Government departments including the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME).
• Scientific bodies like the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and the National Test House (NTH).

Core Features of the Repairability Index

• The Repairability Index will be self-declared by Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) based on standard scoring criteria.
• There will be no additional compliance burden for OEMs.
• The index will be displayed at physical points of sale, on e-commerce platforms, and on product packaging through QR codes.

Goals and Impact

• The framework aims to promote mindful utilization of products rather than wasteful consumption.
• It seeks to empower consumers by providing them with informed product choices.
• The initiative aligns with the Right to Repair principles and the goals of a circular economy.
• It encourages transparency, sustainability, and self-reliance, contributing to Sustainable Development Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).

Alignment with Global Standards

• The framework is modeled on best international practices, such as France’s Repairability Index system.
• It aims to balance innovation, consumer rights, and ease of doing business in the electronic sector.

Broader Policy Ecosystem

• The framework builds on the Right to Repair Portal India established in 2022, which covers various sectors including mobile/electronics, automobiles, consumer durables, and farming equipment.
• Over 65 companies have been onboarded on the portal to facilitate repair-related information.

Future Outlook

•  The framework is expected to expand to other sectors involving electronics and durable goods. 
•  It aims to promote affordable repair access, which is crucial for both rural and urban consumers. 
•  The initiative supports India’s digital empowerment by ensuring the longevity of essential devices. 

WAVES 2025: A People’s Movement that Empowers Every Creator to be a Star

Vision and Theme

• WAVES 2025 aims to boost India’s Orange Economy, focusing on creative industries.
• The event supports India’s ambition to be a global leader in media and entertainment.
• It highlights the importance of democratizing content creation and promoting storytelling by young people.

Economic Impact and Business Outcomes

• WAVES Bazaar facilitated business deals totaling ₹1328 crores within three days.
• The Maharashtra Government established Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) worth ₹8000 crores in the media and entertainment sector.
• More than 3000 B2B meetings took place, demonstrating the summit’s significant commercial appeal.

 Global Cooperation and Diplomacy

• Representatives from 77 countries engaged in the Global Media Dialogue.
• The WAVES Declaration was adopted, emphasizing cultural cooperation, ethical media practices, digital equity, and global peace.
• India spearheaded discussions on narrowing the digital divide and fostering a creator-first economy worldwide.

Start-Up Ecosystem: WAVEX

• 30 start-ups presented their ideas to leading investors such as Jio, Lumikai, and WarmUp Ventures.
• Potential investments worth ₹50 crore are in the pipeline.
• WAVEX aims to establish incubators, mentor networks, and seed investment platforms for creators in Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities.
• The initiative supports start-ups at the idea stage, even if they lack physical products.

Key Reports and Findings

• Statistical Handbook: Provides a detailed overview of the growth, trends, and challenges in India’s media and entertainment sector.
• 'From Content to Commerce' – BCG: Highlights the influence of digital creators on consumer spending, projected to reach $1 trillion by 2030.
• 'A Studio Called India' – EY: Discusses India’s cost advantage in VFX and animation, and the rising international demand for Indian OTT content.
• Legal Currents – Khaitan & Co: Focuses on influencer compliance and the need for regulatory clarity.
• White Paper on Live Events: Explores the sector's growth and calls for licensing and infrastructure reforms.

Capacity Building: Indian Institute of Creative Technology (IICT)

• The IICT is set to become a national hub for skilling and innovation in the media and entertainment sector.
• Its goal is to address the talent shortage in creative technology and boost India’s competitiveness in this field.

Strategic Government Messaging

• The Prime Minister positioned WAVES as the beginning of India’s Orange Economy, emphasizing "Create in India" and youth empowerment through storytelling.
• Other ministers highlighted the importance of blending technology with tradition, aligning policies, and promoting global cultural diplomacy.

 Key Takeaways

• WAVES 2025 was not just a conference but a significant step towards revitalizing India’s creative sector.
• It established India as a key player in global storytelling and a hub for media and entertainment.
• The event set the stage for sustainable development in the sector, fostering international collaborations and a strong creator economy.