Compulsory quality norms for asbestos cement products; Made in India

23 May 2024 CW Team

The government has introduced compulsory quality standards for asbestos or fibre cement-based products to limit the influx of inferior goods and promote domestic manufacturing. The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) issued a notification titled 'Asbestos or Fibre Cement based Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024' on March 6, establishing that products must bear the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) mark to be produced, sold, traded, imported, or stocked.

The order will take effect six months after its publication in the Official Gazette. To support small and micro industries and ensure smooth compliance with the quality control order (QCO), concessions have been provided in terms of deadlines.

Small industries have been granted an additional nine months, while micro industries have been given an additional 12 months to meet the standards. Violation of the BIS Act can lead to imprisonment for up to two years or a minimum fine of Rs 2 lakh for the first offence.

The DPIIT is actively undertaking initiatives, including the development of QCOs, to enhance awareness of quality standards among both users and manufacturers. Mandatory QCOs play a crucial role in preventing the import of sub-standard products, curbing unfair trade practices, and ensuring consumer safety and environmental protection. Previously, similar orders have been issued for various goods, such as smart meters, welding rods, cookware, fire extinguishers, ceiling fans, and gas stoves. (Source: Economic Times)

Infrastructure Transport

27 Jun 2026

Noida Airport Fuels NCR Realty Growth

The start of commercial operations at Noida International Airport has recently emerged as a major trigger for real estate growth across Noida, Greater Noida and the Yamuna Expressway region. The airport is expected to improve regional connectivity and support the next phase of development in eastern NCR.The airport, inaugurated on 28 March, has begun passenger services, while cargo operations are also expected to strengthen its role as an economic and logistics hub. Its operationalisation is expected to reduce dependence on Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport for residents and busine..

thyssenkrupp and GlobalLogic Form AI Alliance

thyssenkrupp AG and GlobalLogic, a Hitachi Group company, have recently formed a strategic alliance to deploy autonomous robotics and Physical AI across heavy industry operations. The partnership aims to improve safety, reduce engineering bottlenecks and accelerate industrial transformation at scale.The alliance brings together thyssenkrupp’s industrial expertise with Hitachi’s innovation capabilities. It includes GlobalLogic, Method and Hitachi America R&D, creating a “Lab-to-Scale” pipeline that connects research, digital strategy, design and enterprise software engineering for i..

Platinum Corp Launches Luxury Suites in Santacruz

Platinum Corp has recently launched Platinum Stellar: Bespoke Presidential Suites, a premium residential project in Santacruz West, Mumbai. The development is positioned as a boutique luxury offering for homebuyers seeking expansive layouts, privacy and personalised living experiences.Located on Main Avenue, the project has been designed as a low-density, high-end residential address with spacious homes starting from 2,500 sq ft and extending to full-floor residences. The project targets HNIs, business owners and legacy residents from the Bandra-Khar-Santacruz belt.Platinum Stellar has been de..