QCI working on 'ZED' model for MSMEs

The Quality Council of India is working on a model for micro, small and medium enterprises to ensure that their product and services have zero defect and minimal effect on environment, Parliament was informed today.
The government is pursuing a policy of 'Zero effect - Zero defect' (ZED) with an objective of having innovative and sustainable strategy for manufacturing and growth.
"With this objective the QCI aims to cover one million MSMEs (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) within the next five years through a 'Maturity Model' named ZED.
"It will guide MSMEs to focus on enablers which can ensure a product or service with zero defect and minimal effect on environment," Commerce and Industry Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha.

Replying to a separate question on relaxed FDI rules in construction and real estate sector, the minister said relaxation of the norms are expected to result in enhanced inflows into the sector.
"It is likely to attract investments in new areas and encourage development of plots for serviced housing given the shortage of land in and around urban agglomerations as well as the high cost of land.
The measure is also expected to result in creation of much needed low cost affordable housing in the country and development of smart cities," she added.