India to Introduce Repairability Index for Phones and Tablets to Empower Consumers

The Indian government, through the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, is introducing a 'Repairability Index' for smartphones and tablets to promote sustainable consumption and consumer rights. Recommended by a government-appointed committee chaired by Additional Secretary Bharat Khera, the new index will inform users about the ease of repairing a device.

This index will be a five-point rating system calculated on six key parameters:

Six Key Parameters of the Repairability Index

1. Depth of disassembly

2. Availability of repair information

3. Timely access to spare parts

4. Software update policies

5. Tools required for repair

6. Types and availability of fasteners

This score will function like the energy efficiency ratings on appliances—helping consumers make informed purchase decisions based on maintainability and repair potential.

Manufacturers to Self-Declare Repair Scores

Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) will be expected to self-declare their Repairability Index scores using a standardized framework developed by the committee. This system is designed to avoid any additional compliance burdens on manufacturers.

These scores will need to be clearly displayed at physical and online points of sale, and likely on product packaging via a QR code for easy access to information.

"Companies are not manufacturing devices for life. They are actually forcing consumers to buy another product because they have planned for their obsolescence. Technology has favoured making sure products fail and have short lifespans," said Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare.

She further emphasized that the goal is to encourage manufacturers to take responsibility for building a robust repair ecosystem, making devices last longer.

Rise in Consumer Complaints Underlines Urgency

Recent data from the National Consumer Helpline (NCH) underscores the necessity for reform. Complaints concerning smartphone and tablet repairs have risen from 19,057 in 2022–23 to 22,864 in 2024–25, demonstrating growing dissatisfaction with post-sale services.

Focus on Critical Smartphone Components First

Initially, the Repairability Index will cover smartphones and tablets, particularly assessing frequently damaged components such as:

• Screens

• Batteries

• Charging ports

These parts are both functionally vital and commonly prone to failure, making them priority targets for assessment.

Plans for Wider Implementation

Once the system is live for smartphones and tablets, the government may expand the Repairability Index to include laptops, desktops, and other consumer electronics in the future.

Before final implementation, the Department of Consumer Affairs will issue draft guidelines for stakeholder consultation to ensure a collaborative rollout.

A Step Towards Global Right-to-Repair Standards

This initiative aligns India with international movements seen in the European Union and the United States that advocate for right-to-repair laws and product sustainability. By giving buyers the tools to make informed decisions and encouraging manufacturers to produce longer-lasting devices, India is moving toward a self-reliant, environmentally conscious digital economy.

Conclusion

The upcoming Repairability Index marks a transformative step by the Indian government to strengthen consumer rights and promote sustainability in the electronics sector. By giving consumers transparent insights into how easy it is to repair smartphones and tablets, the initiative not only fosters informed purchasing decisions but also challenges manufacturers to move away from planned obsolescence.

As Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare rightly pointed out, the goal is to “sensitise manufacturers about their responsibility for providing a repair ecosystem.” With smartphone repair-related complaints on the rise—from 19,057 in 2022–23 to 22,864 in 2024–25—this move couldn’t be more timely.

The Repairability Index, which will initially cover smartphones and tablets, is expected to expand to other electronics, further aligning India with global right-to-repair efforts seen in the EU and US. Ultimately, this initiative supports a circular economy, reduces e-waste, and empowers Indian consumers to make more sustainable tech choices.