Overview:
The MSME Sustainable (ZED) Certification initiative represents a comprehensive effort aimed at raising awareness among MSMEs regarding the principles of Zero Defect Zero Effect (ZED). Its primary goal is to inspire and incentivize MSMEs to pursue ZED Certification, empowering them to become leaders in their industries. Through the ZED Certification journey, MSMEs stand to achieve significant benefits, including substantial reductions in wastage, heightened productivity levels, increased environmental consciousness, energy savings, and optimal utilization of natural resources. Moreover, ZED Certification serves as a catalyst for market expansion opportunities. By participating in the program, MSMEs are encouraged to embrace best practices in work culture, product standardization, and process optimization, thereby bolstering their global competitiveness and long-term sustainability. Importantly, the ZED Certification framework goes beyond mere certification by offering comprehensive assessment, guidance, and support, encompassing managerial and technological interventions to drive meaningful improvement across all facets of MSME operations.
The ZED Certification is proposed to be implemented in 2 Phases:
- PHASE 1 Manufacturing MSMEs: For Manufacturing MSMEs with UDYAM Registration. This phase will focus largely on maximizing inclusion of manufacturing MSMEs and taking them through the journey of ZED.
- PHASE 2 Service Sector MSMEs, ZED Exports: Inclusion of Service Sector MSMEs. This phase will also strive to integrate those MSMEs (manufacturing and Service Sectors) who are registered under a State Government protocol/ system but not on UDYAM. From this phase onwards, additional information r e g a r d i n g M S M E o p e r a t i o n s / performance may be collected so as to create a National MSME Competitiveness Index. It is also envisaged to provide funding to the ZED Certified MSMEs to obtain international certifications like CE and others, as necessary for international market and further, making provisions to align ZED Certification with the international certifications for its global acceptance.
Objective:
The ZED Certification program aims to foster Zero Defect Zero Effect (ZED) practices within Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) with the following objectives:
- Empower MSMEs to produce high-quality goods by leveraging cutting-edge technology and tools, while continuously refining their processes to achieve optimal quality and productivity. This entails embracing the latest advancements in manufacturing to ensure excellence in output while minimizing environmental impact.
- Cultivate a supportive ecosystem conducive to ZED Manufacturing within MSMEs, thereby bolstering their competitiveness and facilitating their entry into global markets through enhanced export capabilities.
- Facilitate the widespread adoption of ZED practices while acknowledging and celebrating the achievements of MSMEs that excel in their implementation.
- Provide incentives that encourage MSMEs to strive for higher ZED Certification levels, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and excellence.
- Enhance public awareness regarding the significance of demanding products that adhere to Zero Defect and Zero Effect standards through the MSME Sustainable (ZED) Certification.
- Serve as a platform for identifying areas of improvement, thereby assisting the government in making informed policy decisions and prioritizing investments to further bolster the MSME sector's competitiveness and sustainability.
ZED Certificate Levels:
MSME Sustainable (ZED) Certification can be attained in THREE Levels after registering and taking the ZED Pledge:
ZED Pledge:
• Certification Level 1: BRONZE
• Certification Level 2: SILVER
• Certification Level 3: GOLD
a. Every MSME that embarks on the journey of ZED will have to take a “ZED Pledge” before applying for a ZED Certification Level (Bronze, Silver, Gold).
b. Certification on WASH Standard & other capacity building measures through MSME KAWACH will be available to MSMEs immediately after taking ZED Pledge.
c. After taking the ZED Pledge, the MSME can apply for any Certification Level if it feels that it can full the requirements mentioned in each level. The intent of taking a ZED Pledge is to take a “pre-commitment” or a solemn promise by MSMEs to uphold the values of Zero Defect Zero Effect in their practices and to urge them to move ahead on the journey of ZED.
Certification Process:
- Following the commitment made by an MSME through the ZED Pledge, they can conveniently apply online for any Certification Level (Bronze, Silver, Gold). To obtain the Certification, the MSME must adhere to all the prescribed requirements corresponding to the chosen level.
- As part of their ZED journey, every MSME is required to furnish an Undertaking, signifying their dedication to implementing ZED principles.
- In the event of any non-conformities, the applicant MSME will be granted an opportunity to rectify these discrepancies within a defined timeframe. This corrective action is necessary to qualify for the desired level of Certification.
- The issuance of the Final ZED Certificate hinges upon the comprehensive assessment conducted by Accredited Assessment Agencies. Their findings and recommendations serve as the basis for granting the Certification.
Moreover, it's important to note that the Ministry of MSME retains the authority to conduct visits and inspections of any certified MSME, particularly those that have availed subsidies, benefits, or incentives under this Scheme. This oversight ensures compliance and upholds the integrity of the Certification process.
Conclusion:
Among Small and Medium-sized businesses, the ZED Certification Scheme of MSMEs is an important initiative that support excellence, sustainability and Competition. The program gives MSMEs the tools they need to succeed in a cutthroat business market by pushing them to embrace quality management practices and reduce their environmental impact. ZED Certification presents MSMEs as trustworthy and reputable business organizations while opening up new markets and increasing operational efficiency. MSMEs should think about utilizing the advantages of ZED Certification to realize their full potential and support the economic development of the country.
