As digital adoption accelerates, consumer electronics have become essential to everyday life in India. Smartphones, in particular, now act as the primary tool for communication, work, payments, and services. The scale reflects this shift, with around 151 million smartphones shipped in 2024 and demand expected to stay strong in the coming years.
However, rising device ownership also raises an important question—what happens when devices stop working? For most consumers, the answer lies in local repair shops. India’s repair-first culture, supported by a large informal network of technicians, offers quick and affordable solutions. When an authorised repair costs ₹8,000 and a local option costs ₹2,500, price becomes the deciding factor.
At the same time, modern devices have become more complex and software-driven. This increases risks linked to unregulated repairs, including data security concerns, safety issues, and reduced product life. Lower upfront costs can sometimes lead to higher long-term expenses.
Experts suggest that the solution is not to replace the informal repair ecosystem but to upgrade it. Making genuine spare parts, tools, and repair information widely available at competitive prices can improve repair quality without disrupting existing systems.
India’s consumer behaviour also plays a role. Unlike markets where DIY repair is common, Indian users prefer assisted services. This means a successful right-to-repair framework must focus on enabling technicians rather than encouraging self-repair. Modular design, where parts like batteries or displays can be replaced easily, can simplify repairs and improve consistency.
The need for reform is also driven by environmental concerns. India is the world’s third-largest producer of e-waste, generating around 1.7–1.8 million metric tonnes each year. Much of this is handled by the informal sector, often through unsafe methods. Repairing devices instead of discarding them can help reduce this burden.
Globally, regulations are evolving. The European Union’s right-to-repair directive in 2024 has made repairability a key requirement. India has also taken steps with initiatives like a Right to Repair portal and a Repairability Index, alongside efforts to build a structured repair ecosystem.
Industry experts highlight that collaboration between manufacturers, service providers, technicians, and consumers will be critical. Improving access to genuine parts and building trust in repair services can strengthen the ecosystem.
At its core, right-to-repair is about ownership. Enabling accessible and reliable repairs can reduce e-waste, create jobs, and build long-term value across India’s growing electronics market.
Also read: Viksit Workforce for a Viksit Bharat
Do Follow: The Mainstream LinkedIn | The Mainstream Facebook | The Mainstream Youtube | The Mainstream Twitter
About us:
The Mainstream is a premier platform delivering the latest updates and informed perspectives across the technology business and cyber landscape. Built on research-driven, thought leadership and original intellectual property, The Mainstream also curates summits & conferences that convene decision makers to explore how technology reshapes industries and leadership. With a growing presence in India and globally across the Middle East, Africa, ASEAN, the USA, the UK and Australia, The Mainstream carries a vision to bring the latest happenings and insights to 8.2 billion people and to place technology at the centre of conversation for leaders navigating the future.
