Steel associations call for extension of quality control order

The government has received requests from three associations, including All India Stainless Steel Importers Association, for extension of Stainless Steel Product (Quality Control) Order, 2016.
To check the sale of defective and sub-standard stainless steel products used for making utensils and various kitchen appliances, the Steel Ministry had in June issued a quality control order that will help filter imports of the metal.
"The government has received representations from The Tamil Nadu Stainless Steel Merchants & Manufacturers Association, All India Stainless Steel Importers Association, & Metal and Stainless Steel Merchant's Association highlighting various issues regarding the Stainless Steel product (QC) Order, 2016...Requesting for extension in date of implementation," Minister of State for Steel Vishnu Deo Sai said in a written reply in Lok Sabha.

The order published on June 10, will come into effect from September 10, the minister said.
The order does not prohibit production, sale distribution and import of stainless steel sheet products. It only warrants that the products must bear the standard mark of BIS for which the producers in India and abroad are required to obtain a license from the BIS.
However, production, sale and distribution of defective product is prohibited for protecting the interest of the stainless steel industry in the country.