Flat Transparent Sheet Glass Quality Control Order, 2021

## Report on the Flat Transparent Sheet Glass Quality Control Order, 2021 **1. Executive Summary:** This report analyzes the "Flat Transparent Sheet Glass Quality Control Order, 2021" based solely on the provided official gazette notification. This order, issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, mandates compliance with Indian Standard IS 2835: 1987 for flat transparent sheet glass. The order effectively makes adherence to this standard and the use of the Standard Mark compulsory for domestic production and sales within India starting April 1, 2022, excluding exports. This report details the policy's provisions, identifies affected stakeholders, and infers likely implementation aspects and expected outcomes. This order supersedes the Flat Transparent Sheet Glass Quality Control Order, 2020. **2. Introduction:** This report aims to provide an informative overview of the "Flat Transparent Sheet Glass Quality Control Order, 2021," as published in the Gazette of India. The analysis is based exclusively on the text of the order provided, focusing on its objectives, provisions, and implications for the flat transparent sheet glass industry. **3. Policy Overview:** * This order supersedes the Flat Transparent Sheet Glass Quality Control Order, 2020, published on February 14, 2020 (S.O. 738(E)). * **Core Objective(s):** Based on the text, the core objective is to ensure the quality of flat transparent sheet glass manufactured and sold in India by mandating adherence to the Indian Standard IS 2835: 1987 and requiring the use of the Standard Mark, therefore safeguarding public interest. **4. Background and Rationale:** This is a superseding order; therefore, the rationale for the *change* is the main focus. The text indicates the central government, after consulting the Bureau of Indian Standards, found it "necessary or expedient so to do in the public interest." While the precise reason for the supersession isn't explicitly stated, it can be inferred that the prior order was deemed insufficient or required updating to better serve the public interest, possibly due to changes in standards, enforcement, or market conditions. The supersession suggests a need for stronger or more effective quality control measures. **5. Key Provisions / Changes:** This order supersedes the Flat Transparent Sheet Glass Quality Control Order, 2020, meaning it replaces the old policy with a new one. Here are the key changes: * **Supersession:** The Flat Transparent Sheet Glass Quality Control Order, 2020 (S.O. 738(E), dated February 14, 2020) is superseded, except for actions already taken or omitted before this supersession. * **Effective Date:** This order comes into force from the date of its publication in the official Gazette, save as otherwise provided in the order. Specific application is provided below. * **Application:** The order applies to flat transparent sheet glass (specified in column 1 of the table in the order) with effect from April 1, 2022. The application excludes goods or articles meant for export. * **Mandatory Standard Compliance:** All specified flat transparent sheet glass must conform to Indian Standard IS 2835: 1987 (as per the latest version notified by the Bureau of Indian Standards) and bear the Standard Mark under a license from the Bureau as per Scheme I of Schedule II of the Bureau of Indian Standards Conformity Assessment Regulations, 2018. **6. Target Audience and Stakeholders:** The primary target audience includes: * Manufacturers of flat transparent sheet glass within India. * Importers and distributors of flat transparent sheet glass intended for domestic sale (though technically, importers are impacted before the point of sale in India). * Consumers of flat transparent sheet glass. * Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). * Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). **7. Implementation Aspects (Inferred):** * **Responsible Agency/Bodies:** The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is designated as the certifying and enforcement authority. The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) is the issuing ministry. * **Timelines/Procedures:** The order comes into effect upon publication in the official gazette; however, the mandatory compliance with the standard applies from April 1, 2022. Manufacturers must obtain a license from the BIS to use the Standard Mark. They must also adhere to Scheme I of Schedule II of the Bureau of Indian Standards Conformity Assessment Regulations, 2018. * **Specific Changes:** The significant change is the move from the previous quality control order to the new one, which necessitates compliance to the IS 2835:1987 standards. **8. Expected Outcomes / Impact of Changes:** The likely intended outcomes of this policy, based on the text, are: * Improved quality and reliability of flat transparent sheet glass available in the Indian market. * Enhanced consumer confidence due to the assurance of meeting the prescribed Indian Standard. * Standardization of manufacturing processes within the industry. * A more competitive market where quality is a key differentiator. * Better enforcement through the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). **9. Conclusion:** The "Flat Transparent Sheet Glass Quality Control Order, 2021" is a significant regulatory measure designed to ensure the quality of flat transparent sheet glass in the Indian market. By mandating compliance with IS 2835: 1987 and requiring the Standard Mark, the order aims to protect consumer interests and promote standardization within the industry. Manufacturers must prepare to meet these requirements by April 1, 2022. The supersession of the previous order indicates a continuing effort by the government to maintain and improve quality control standards in this sector.

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