Right to Repair Movement

Context

Over the years, consumers in India and globally have faced increasing difficulties in repairing electronic products like smartphones, laptops, washing machines, and air conditioners. These products either break down frequently or are deliberately made difficult or expensive to repair—a practice known as planned obsolescence. As a result, consumers are often forced to buy new products instead of repairing existing ones, leading to financial strain and increased electronic waste.

What is the Right to Repair?

The Right to Repair is a global movement demanding that:
- Consumers should be allowed to repair their products themselves or go to third-party repair shops.
- Companies should not monopolise repair services by limiting access to spare parts or repair information.

What has the Indian Government done recently?

India has initiated steps toward formalising the Right to Repair through a new Repairability Index (RI), aimed at making electronic goods more consumer- and environment-friendly.
The Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA) has received a report on creating a "Repairability Index" (RI) for electronic goods.
This Index would score products based on how easy they are to repair, taking into account:
- Availability and price of spare parts
- Access to repair manuals and technical documentation
- Software update availability
- Time and cost involved in repairs

The idea is that when consumers buy electronics, they will be able to see a repairability score (just like energy efficiency ratings) and choose products that are easier and cheaper to maintain.

Why is this important?

Consumer Protection: Products should last longer or be easy to repair. Consumers are entitled to a fair choice and reasonable post-sale service.
Cost of Living: Reducing the need to frequently replace gadgets or appliances will lower household expenses.
Environmental Impact: Encouraging repair reduces electronic waste and decreases dependence on freshly mined ("virgin") metals—many of which India imports.
Circular Economy: Repairing and recycling are key parts of India's efforts to move towards a circular economy, where materials are reused and reintegrated into the supply chain.

India vs. U.S. Approach:

India's Approach: The government launched a Right to Repair portal listing official service centres and repair manuals from manufacturers. This approach is non-confrontational and works within existing systems.
U.S. Approach: Consumer groups and lawmakers in the U.S. have taken a more aggressive stance—pushing laws to break manufacturer monopolies, ensure third-party repair access, and require companies to disclose repair and maintenance costs.