What is the ZED Certification Scheme?
ZED Certification is a programme that assists Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSMEs) in achieving Zero Defect and Zero Effect (ZED) manufacturing. It also offers ZED Assessment for certification, which encourages the production of high-quality products. This scheme contributes to the ‘Make in India‘ push. It is funded by the Indian government and is overseen by the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises.
Objectives of the Scheme
The initiative aims to promote Zero Defect and Zero Effect (ZED) manufacturing among MSMEs, as well as ZED Assessment for their certification, with the following goals:
- Creating an Ecosystem for Zero Defect Manufacturing in Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSMEs).
- To encourage the use of quality tools/systems and energy-efficient manufacturing.
- To help MSMEs to produce high-quality products.
- To encourage MSMEs to consistently improve their product and process quality standards.
- To drive manufacturing while adhering to Zero Defect production processes and minimising environmental effect.
- To lend support to the ‘Make in India’ campaign.
- To train professionals in ZED manufacture and certification.
Benefits of the Scheme
- Credible and dependable vendor database: ZED would ensure that corporations investing in India have a ready-made and dependable vendor base to support the MSMEs rated under the ZED Certification Scheme.
- Reducing our harmful impact on the environment: Increased environmental consciousness, transforming them become “Responsible Manufacturers”
- Awards and Rewards: The Department of MSME and Export Promotion may create an award and reward system for high-performing ZED units. They will be acknowledged on a national level, which will allow them to promote themselves on a global scale.
- Adherence to best practises: Under the auspices of the ZED Certification Scheme, MSMEs will have the chance to conduct benchmark studies and learn about best practises from around the world.
- Global Competitiveness: Increased vendor competitiveness in the global marketplace so that items created are defect-free, harnessing the benefits of quality and cost optimization.
- Visibility and brand recognition: The “ZED Mark” allows an MSME to be perceived as a corporation with a competitive advantage against non-rated MSME units.
Eligibility Criteria for the ZED Certification
This scheme is open to all Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises that are registered with the Ministry of MSME, DIC (EM-II), or other government organisations or industry organisations.
Government Subsidies under the Scheme
The government’s subsidies under this scheme are as follows:
- 80 percent are microbusinesses.
- 60 percent are small businesses.
- Medium-sized businesses: 50%
- MSMEs owned by women in the SC/ST category are eligible for an additional 5% subsidy.
- MSMEs in northeast India and J&K are eligible for an additional 5% subsidy.
The ZED Registration Procedure
The application form is available for download through the ZED web portal.
The registration procedure for the scheme is as follows:
- Registration on the ZED web portal is free if you have a valid mobile number and email address.
- There will be an online evaluation of ZED parameters.
- This is followed by the Desktop Evaluation.
- If chosen, a Site Assessment will be conducted, after which MSMEs that have been rated may choose to consult with an authorised ZED consultant for hand-holding and gap analysis.