To help MSMEs access imports, panel for easing quality control framework, Pg 1.

Key Highlights:

• A high-level government committee has proposed easing the Quality Control Order (QCO) framework to help MSMEs access cheaper imported components.
• The committee, led by Rajiv Gauba from NITI Aayog, finalized recommendations after a meeting on September 6.
• Recommendations include toning down technical assessments and revamping inspections for MSMEs.
• Schneider Electric India Private Limited (SEIPL) invites the sixth round of Expression of Interest (EOI) from LV switchgear manufacturers in India for availing white labelling product manufacturing services from SEIPL.
• The white labelling services for the Five Products can be availed for the remaining period of the white labelling product manufacturing services offering ending as on 28 September 2026 for sale solely in the Indian market.
• Interested LV switchgear manufacturers are requested to respond fully and finally to this sixth round of invitation for EOI by submitting their details by 18th November 2025.

Detailed Insights:

• The committee aims to address challenges faced by MSMEs in obtaining certifications under Quality Control Orders (QCOs), which are mandatory standards enforced by the government.
• Relaxing the QCO framework could lower production costs for MSMEs, enhancing their competitiveness in both domestic and international markets.
• Schneider Electric India Private Limited (SEIPL) is offering white labelling product manufacturing services for the existing product range, owned and manufactured at L&T plants, of the five products of L&T (Air Circuit Breakers (“ACB”), Moulded Case Circuit Breakers (“MCCB”), Overload Relays, Contactors and Switch Disconnector Fuse (“SDF”)), collectively “Five Products”.
• Any such eligible third-party LV switchgear manufacturer availing the white labelling services from SEIPL pursuant to this present (sixth) round of the expression of interest will not be eligible for the non-transferable, non-sub licensable, non-exclusive technology license (“NETL”).
• The pricing and allocation of quantity for the white labelling contract will be governed by the CCI Order and monitored by the Monitoring Agency.

Key Concepts Involved:

• MSMEs (Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises): Businesses that form the backbone of the Indian economy, categorized by investment and turnover.
• Quality Control Orders (QCOs): Mandatory technical regulations enforced by the government to ensure product quality and safety.
• White labelling: White labelling is when one company removes its branding from a product and instead uses the branding requested by the purchaser.