Zero Defect Zero Effect Model

The slogan “Zero Defect Zero Effect” was given by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and it signifies two things:

• Production mechanisms wherein products have no defects
• Production process which has zero adverse environmental and ecological effects.

Thus, the ZED model aims to achieve high quality manufacturing that’s also green. While India putting efforts to become global manufacturing hub, the ZED model is necessary to take forward the efforts.

The scope of the model is spans across all sectors of manufacturing and service industry with a special focus on micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME). The ZED model is meant to raise the quality levels in the unregulated MSME sector. The MSME sector is the engine of Indian economic growth. The MSME sector contributes 38% of the country’s GDP and around 110 million Indians are employed in the sector.

Questions to Analyze

• What ground work was done to promote the ZED model?
• What is the significance of the model?

What ground work was done to promote the ZED model?

After the model was conceptualised in September 2014, the Quality Council of India (QCI) formulated the first draft of the model. Later in 2015, pilot of the model was launched in selected enterprises. Awareness campaigns are launched in 30 cities of India. Ten ZED cells which will implement the model have been launched. Quality Council of India (QCI) will play a very important role in implementation of the model.

Under the model, the manufacturing units will be assessed and awarded ratings of bronze, silver, gold, diamond and platinum. A ZED platinum rating means the manufacturer is of international standard and follows global best practices. The assessing depend on the industry chosen, and the various quality and environment assessing factors include process automation, process capability, design, safety and hygiene issues, waste management, defect rate and people management.

The government will also rope various companies and chambers of commerce to popularise the model among vendors and dealers.

What is the significance of the model?

India is witnessing unprecedented technological development in various fields like agriculture, industry, business or service sectors. But most these technological developments have caused some form of environmental degradation. It is necessary to develop innovative ways to reduce the consumption of natural resources and develop solutions leading to sustainability of energy use and protection of global environment.

The ‘Zero defect, zero effect’ concept seems to be a theoretical concept but its relevance to Indian manufacturing and lowering the impact on environment cannot be overstated. Questions are raised on how development can be achieved without causing any effect on environment. Production and environment protection can, and should, co-exist. Simple steps like reduction of discharge can enhance the environmental sensitivity of our processes and can have far-reaching impact.