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Lab testing in India should be of world standards
The Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Minister has called for embarking on Mission 'one nation one standard' and make India the leader in setting global benchmarks in setting standards. He said that lab testing in India should be of world standards and modern equipment and latest technologies should be used. BIS should explore international partnerships and associations to achieve synergy in the field. He said that "gap analysis" of BIS and government labs be taken up on a priority basis as well. In management parlance, gap analysis refers to the comparison of actual performance with potential or desired performance.
Indian auto industry seeks government support for localisation of electronic components
Auto industry body SIAM sought government support for localisation of electronic components, specially semiconductors, which is currently facing a global shortage, stating it would need huge investments. The shortage of semiconductors globally due to a spike in demand from the consumer electronics industry during the COVID-19 lockdowns has impacted automobile manufacturers in India as well. Semiconductors have become a crucial part in modern cars with increased electronic components and connectivity features.
Budget to further boost Science and Technology ecosystem
Budget 2021 includes several initiatives to promote science, technology, and innovation with applications in the country. It is a forward-looking budget to substantially boost support for R&D in the key identified areas of national priorities. These are also in line with the projections in the draft Science Technology and Innovation Policy 2021 put up for public consultations. This includes a total allocation of Rs 50,000 crore (€5.9 billion) over 5 years for the National Research Foundation, an autonomous body envisaged to support researchers working across several streams of S&T with special focus on universities.
Rise in customs duty on auto parts to support local manufacturing
With an eye on supporting domestic manufacturers, the government proposed an increase in customs duty on certain imported components used in automobiles. In the Budget 2021-22, the Finance Minister proposed an increase in customs duty of various parts including ignition wiring sets, safety glass and parts of signalling equipment to 15 % with effect from February. The government said the changes in basic customs duty is for creating a level-playing field for the benefit of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and other domestic manufacturers.