The ‘Right to Repair‘ movement has gained significant momentum globally, and India has not been left behind. The Ministry of Consumer Affairs (MCA) has introduced the ‘Right to Repair’ portal, a significant stride towards consumer empowerment and sustainable living.
But what is this portal all about, and how does it impact the Indian consumer? Let’s dive in.
What is the ‘Right to Repair’?
In the simplest terms, the ‘Right to Repair’ framework allows consumers to repair products optimally rather than purchasing new ones. This not only saves money but also promotes sustainability.
The government portal offers a list of consumer care contact details of all major consumer product manufacturers for a hassle-free reachout for repairs or technical support.
Sounds great, right? Well, as per the official site, consumers can search for companies by name or product. All public information related to their products, services, warranty, terms, and conditions are consolidated on this portal.
This initiative resonates with the LiFE (Lifestyle For Environment) campaign launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2021. The campaign emphasizes “mindful and deliberate utilisation, instead of mindless and destructive consumption” to protect our environment.
How Can You Use the Portal?
Navigating the portal is a breeze. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Access the Right To Repair website.
- On the homepage, you’ll find a list of registered brands like Samsung, Apple, Hero, and more.
- Click on the desired brand to access the ‘product listings’ section.
- Select the product you’re interested in. You’ll land on a page with all the related details—product info, customer care details, service details, and more.
- You can also find product warranty details, terms and conditions, compatibility of spare parts, operational hours, and authorized service centers.
- Additionally, a company overview and their social media handles are displayed for timely updates.
Need to Register a Complaint? Here’s How!
The Right to Repair Portal offers a platform for customers to file grievances. You can provide basic information about the product, such as brand and model, and describe the nature of your complaint.
Once registered, you’ll receive a unique complaint number and a resolution deadline. This portal ensures consumers have a streamlined way to report faulty products and seek redress.
Why is This Portal a Game-Changer for Car Owners?
The Ministry of Consumer Affairs has introduced the ‘Right To Repair’ initiative, especially crucial for car owners. It addresses instances where car manufacturers have imposed unnecessary costs and replacements. This initiative empowers car owners with better control over their repair decisions.
For instance, ever wondered why your car battery drains fast? Or how to recharge your car AC in 10 minutes? Such issues can be addressed without being tied to the manufacturer’s terms.
Moreover, with the new ‘Right To Repair’ rule, consumers can retain their vehicle’s warranty even if they opt for repairs at non-authorised service centres. This means you’re no longer bound to the authorised service centre for minor repairs, a massive relief for many!
Currently, Hero MotoCorp and Honda Motorcycles have enrolled under this new rule. The government is making efforts to get more manufacturers on board voluntarily.
In Conclusion
The ‘Right to Repair’ portal is a monumental step towards ensuring consumers aren’t strong-armed into purchasing new products when their existing ones can be repaired. It champions the cause of sustainable living, ensuring products enjoy a longer lifespan, and consumers enjoy the right to choose where and how they get their products repaired.
So, the next time you’re thinking of discarding a product, remember: you have the right to repair.
