Category: Food Sector

NABH MITRA PROGRAM – Launch

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LAUNCH OF NABH MITRA EMPANELMENT PROGRAMME (MEP)

The NABH MITRA Empanelment Programme has been officially launched to build a nationwide network of verified professionals and organisations (“MITRAs”) who will support hospitals with NABH Accreditation, Certification, and digital health transformation, especially across Tier 2, 3, and 4 cities in India.

The last date to submit applications for empanelment is October 10,2025

About the Programme

The initiative offers a structured, transparent framework for MITRAs—trusted companions to hospitals—who will guide healthcare organisations through quality improvement and digital enablement in line with NABH standards. Empanelled MITRAs will be listed on the NABH website with verified credentials and areas of expertise.

Categories of MITRAs

Digital MITRA: Supports hospitals in implementing NABH Digital Health Standards and IT enablement through structured digital health consultancy. Digital MITRA category has additional training and experience requirements

Organisational MITRAs: Support hospitals for both Full Accreditation and Entry-Level Certification.

Individual MITRAs: Independently support hospitals mainly for Entry-Level Certification.

Who Can Apply:

Individual MITRAs: Qualified professionals with at least one successful accreditation or certification support project and one NABH-certified professional (current assessors not eligible).

Organisational MITRAs: Registered companies, LLPs, trusts, societies, or proprietorship entities operational for at least one year, with experience supporting minimum three hospitals through accreditation or certification. Must have at least two NABH-certified professionals (current NABH assessors not eligible).

Application Process & Fees

i. Apply via the NABH online portal by October 10, 2025.
ii. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews and required training.
iii.Empanelment fee for a three-year period: ₹20,000 + GST (Individual MITRA), ₹50,000 + GST (Organisational MITRA).
iv.Training program charges: ₹25,000 + GST for MITRA, ₹15,000 + GST for Digital MITRA (paid after selection)

Additional Information

i. MITRAs will play a key role in enabling hospitals to achieve NABH standards and strengthen India’s healthcare quality framework
ii. Empanelment does not imply endorsement or financial association by NABH.
iii.Maintaining high standards, transparency, and ethical conduct is compulsory.

Download NABH Concept Note

Source: https://portal.nabh.co/Announcement/MEP_Concept.pdf

Industry Information update : Sector-wise Compendiums of Indian Standards

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Sector-wise Compendiums of Indian Standards published – BIS

BIS Unveils 130 Sector-wise Compendiums of Indian Standards to Enhance Industry and Consumer Awareness

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has released a comprehensive collection of 130 sector-specific compendiums of Indian Standards, now accessible on the BIS portal.

Organized by industry sectors and product/service categories, these compendiums serve as consolidated reference guides for a wide range of stakeholders, including regulatory authorities, industry professionals, academic institutions, and consumer organizations.

Stakeholders can access the compendiums at
https://services.bis.gov.in/php/BIS_2.0/bisconnect/compendium_of_indian_standards_dept_wise

Please scan the QR code given below to download :

Source: https://services.bis.gov.in/php/BIS_2.0/bisconnect/compendium_of_indian_standards_dept_wise

Industry Information Update – BIS – Sector wise Calendar for Upcoming Webinars

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BIS – Sector wise Calendar for Upcoming Webinars

Bureau of Indian Standards is organising Sector specific awareness programs

In order to spread the awareness among the concerned stakeholders, manufacturers, importers and common consumers BIS is organising ‘Interactive lecture series and Sector-wise webinar’ on the below mentioned topics.

Manufacturers including MSMEs are requested to attend the above webinars based on their respective business interests for a particular sector.

Participation in these webinars does not require any preregistration and can be joined conveniently and remotely through Computer / Laptops / Mobiles.

The link for joining these webinars are hosted well in advance on BIS Website: www.bis.gov.in

Source: https://www.bis.gov.in/

Industry Update – Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011 with amendments

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Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011 with Amendments

The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution, Department of Consumer Affairs has issued The Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011 with all amendments up to December 24, 2024.

It outlines the regulations for pre-packaged commodities in India, ensuring that consumers receive accurate information about the products they purchase. 

The rules apply to packages intended for retail sale but exclude certain categories such as:
(a) packages of commodities containing quantity of more than 25 kilogram or 25 litre
(b) cement, fertilizer and agricultural farm produce sold in bags above 50 kilogram
(c) packaged commodities meant for industrial consumers or institutional consumers

The document includes several key amendments to the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011, compared to earlier versions. ​ Here are some notable amendments:

  1. Consumer Definition Update:
    • The definition of “consumer” has been updated to align with the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. ​
  2. E-commerce Provisions:
    • Definitions for “E-commerce,” “E-commerce entity,” and “marketplace-based model of e-commerce” have been added. ​
    • E-commerce entities must ensure that mandatory declarations are displayed on their digital platforms. ​
  3. Retail Sale Price (MRP):
    • The format for declaring the maximum retail price has been standardized to ensure clarity and consistency. ​
  4. Unit Sale Price:
    • The requirement to declare the unit sale price in rupees, rounded off to the nearest two decimal places, has been introduced. ​
  5. QR Code Usage:
    • For electronic products, the use of QR codes to provide additional information such as the manufacturer’s address, common or generic name, and size/dimensions has been allowed. ​
  6. Packaging Size and Weight:
    • Specific packaging sizes for various commodities have been updated or added, such as for baby food, biscuits, edible oils, and more.
  7. Exemptions:
    • New exemptions have been introduced for certain packages, such as those containing loose commodities ordered through e-commerce channels and garments sold in loose or open form at the point of sale. ​
  8. Inspection and Testing:
    • Detailed procedures for inspecting and testing packages at the premises of manufacturers, packers, and dealers have been specified, including the use of statistical methods to determine compliance. ​
  9. Penalties and Compounding of Offenses:
    • The penalties for non-compliance have been updated, including specific fines for different types of offenses. ​
    • The sum for compounding offenses has been specified, with different amounts for retailers, wholesale dealers, manufacturers, and importers. ​
  10. Registration Requirements:
    • The process for registering manufacturers, packers, and importers has been clarified, including the requirement to provide a complete address and the option to register a shorter address. ​
  11. Declaration of Quantity:
    • The rules for declaring the net quantity of commodities have been refined, including the requirement to exclude the weight of wrappers and materials other than the commodity. ​
  12. Best Before/Use by Date:
    • The requirement to declare the “best before” or “use by” date for commodities that may become unfit for human consumption after a period of time has been emphasized. ​

These amendments aim to enhance consumer protection, ensure transparency, and adapt to the evolving marketplace, including the rise of e-commerce.

The e book of  Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011 can be downloaded from https://doca.gov.in/lm-ebook/

Click here to read the ebook

source: https://doca.gov.in/lm-ebook/

Industry update – FSSAI Notification

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FSSAI classifies packaged drinking water as ‘High Risk Food Category’

FSSAI classifies packaged drinking water as ‘High Risk Food Category’. Food products that come under the ‘High Risk’ category are subjected to mandatory risk-based inspections

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has decided to treat the packaged drinking and mineral water segment as a “High Risk Food Category” and subject to mandatory inspection and third-party audit norms.

From the recent FSSAI order, here are the specific points related to non-alcoholic soft beverages, packaged drinking water, and associated inspections:

1. Omission of BIS Certification:

Clauses related to mandatory BIS Certification for certain food products (including packaged drinking water) have been omitted. This indicates a regulatory shift, potentially delegating certification responsibility or modifying compliance requirements.

2. Inspection of Manufacturers:

The order outlines changes regarding the inspection process for manufacturers:
Specific details about the nature and scope of inspections may no longer reference previously mandatory BIS protocols.

Manufacturers might need to adhere to updated FSSAI guidelines for inspections and compliance.

3. Inspection Frequency:

Frequency of inspections for manufacturers of packaged drinking water and non-alcoholic beverages may have been updated:

It suggests a move towards a risk-based inspection framework, where high-risk categories could face more frequent inspections.

Lower-risk categories or compliant manufacturers might experience reduced inspection frequency to streamline oversight.

4. Other Relevant Amendments:

The general regulatory focus appears to be on reducing redundancy (e.g., removing duplicate certification processes like BIS) while strengthening direct oversight under FSSAI.

Packaged drinking water manufacturers must adhere strictly to the FSSAI’s revised standards for production and packaging.


In summary, the amendments simplify compliance by removing some previous certifications (like BIS), focusing on direct FSSAI oversight, and potentially altering inspection frequency to be risk-oriented.

This aligns with FSSAI’s goal of improving efficiency in regulating high-risk categories like packaged drinking water and non-alcoholic beverages.

FSSAI has recently removed the necessity for FBOs to obtain AGMARK, BIS/ISI Certifications for their Food Products and FSSAI Licensing norms will redefine the Certification, Inspection norms that are needed for FBOs.

Click here to read the Notification

Source : FSSAI Advisory dated Nov 29th 2024

Industry Update – Establishment of the Global Accreditation Cooperation

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Establishment of the Global Accreditation Cooperation (GLOBAC)

The establishment of the Global Accreditation Cooperation (GLOBAC) marks a significant shift in the global accreditation landscape, merging the International Accreditation Forum (IAF) and the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC) into a single entity.

This transition, aimed to be operational by January 2026, follows extensive discussions and agreements among IAF and ILAC members in 2024.

Key Developments

Formation of GLOBAC:

In 2019, IAF and ILAC members decided to create GLOBAC, which will take over their existing roles. The formal incorporation process began in New Zealand in October 2024 after the approval of GLOBAC’s Constitution and General Rules.

Mutual Recognition:

GLOBAC aims to enhance international trade by ensuring mutual recognition of accredited services across borders, thereby removing technical barriers. Until GLOBAC becomes operational, IAF and ILAC will continue their normal operations with existing recognition arrangements remaining valid

Transition Plan

Before Transition Date:

Until the Transition Date, IAF and ILAC will maintain their operations, and existing guidance for regulators will remain applicable. The IAF Multilateral Recognition Arrangement (IAF MLA) and ILAC Mutual Recognition Arrangement (ILAC MRA) will continue to function until GLOBAC takes over

After Transition Date:

Following the Transition Date, GLOBAC will assume all responsibilities of IAF and ILAC. Regulations referencing IAF MLA or ILAC MRA will gradually be updated to reflect GLOBAC’s framework. It is anticipated that the use of IAF MLA and ILAC MRA Marks will cease three years post-transition

Recommendations for Regulators:

Regulators are encouraged to collaborate with IAF and ILAC members to prepare for necessary changes in their documentation as GLOBAC becomes operational. This proactive approach will facilitate a smoother transition to the new accreditation framework

For further inquiries regarding this transition, stakeholders can contact the GLOBAC Executive Committee through its Secretary : secretary@globac.org

Click here to read more

Industry Update – World Health Innovation Forum 2024

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World Health Innovation Forum 2024 @ Vizag

Kalam Institute of Health Technology (KIHT), Vizag is organising the 2nd edition of World Health Innovation Forum 2024 at Vizag from December 12th to 14th 2024.

Key Highlights of the Program

a. To Explore Innovation in Healthcare.
b. To Create Public Private Partnerships Platform.
c. To Support Policy-Making in Healthcare
d. To Impact Global Health.

To explore the transformative learning, unparalleled networking opportunities and collaborative initiatives please click the link https://www.whif.kiht.in/registration/ and register for the program.

For additional details on the program, please contact:
Email : whif@kiht.in
Phone: +91 8341622261

Click here for Program Agenda

Source: https://www.whif.kiht.in/

Industry Updates – MCA Notification Amendment Order – MSME

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Specified Companies (Furnishing of information about payment to micro and small enterprise suppliers) Amendment Order, 2024 – MINISTRY OF CORPORATE AFFAIRS Notification

On July 15, 2024, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs issued an amendment to the Specified Companies (Furnishing of information about payment to micro and small enterprise suppliers) Order, 2019, namely Specified Companies (Furnishing of information about payment to micro and small enterprise suppliers) Amendment Order, 2024

Objectives

The amendment aims to improve transparency and accountability in corporate payments to micro and small enterprises, ensuring they receive timely payments essential for their operations and growth. This initiative helps protect the interests of smaller suppliers within the business landscape.

Summary of the Amendment

Title: Specified Companies (Furnishing of information about payment to micro and small enterprise suppliers) Amendment Order, 2024.

Effective Date: The amendment takes effect immediately upon publication in the Official Gazette.

Reporting Criteria: Only specified companies with payments pending to micro or small enterprises for more than 45 days from the acceptance date of goods or services must report this information using MSME Form-1.

Form Update: The existing MSME Form-1 has been replaced with a new form to better capture details about overdue payments.

Click here to read the Notification

Source: https://www.mca.gov.in/bin/ebook/dms/getdocument?doc=NDU5OTY2Mjky&docCategory=Notifications&type=open

Industry Update – Amendments to Tamil Nadu Shops and Establishments Rules, 1948

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AMENDMENTS TO THE TAMIL NADU SHOPS AND ESTABLISHMENTS RULES, 1948

Labour Welfare and Skill Development Department of Tamil Nadu has issued the Amendments to The Tamil Nadu Shops and Establishments Rules 1948 on July 2, 2024

Latest Amendments :

(1) after rule 2, the following rule shall be inserted, namely:-

“2A. Application for registration of establishment.-

(1) Every application for registration of an establishment shall be made in Form-Y to the Inspector of the area in which the establishment is located.
(2) Every application under sub-rule (1), shall be made online together with a fee of Rs.100/- (Rupees one hundred only) through the designated web portal of the Labour Department.

2B. Issue of registration certificate for establishment.-

(1) The Inspector shall issue registration certificate online in Form-Z within twenty four hours from
the time of making of the application under rule 2A.
(2) A Register of establishments shall be maintained by the Inspector in Form-ZA.

2C. Intimation of existing establishments.–

The employer of every establishment in existence on the date of commencement of the Tamil Nadu Shops and Establishments (Amendment) Act, 2018 shall furnish online, through the designated web portal of the Labour Department, details of the establishment in Form ZB to the Inspector of the area in which the establishment is located.

2D. Amendment of Registration Certificate.-

(1) The application for amendment of a registration certificate shall be made online, through the designated web portal of the Labour Department.
(2) The Inspector shall issue a fresh registration certificate online in Form-Z within twenty four hours from the
time of making of the application under sub-rule (1).

Other Amendments:

(2) after rule 6, the following rule shall be inserted, namely:-

6A – Amendment on First Aid Facilities
(1) In every establishment, First-aid box shall be provided at the rate of not less than one box for every one hundred and fifty persons or part thereof ordinarily employed and shall be maintained so as to be readily accessible during all working hours.
(2) The first-aid box shall be distinctively marked with a red cross on a white background and shall contain basic first aid related materials for treating small injuries.
(3) Adequate arrangements shall be made for immediate recoupment of the equipment when necessary”;

(3) in rule 18 (Penalty for non compliance of Rules), for the expression “which may extend to fifty rupees”, the expression “which may extend to two thousand rupees” shall be substituted;

(4) The following Forms shall be added, in addition to Form X
– Form Y ( Application for Registration)
– Form Z (Registration Certificate)
– Form ZA (Register of Shops & Establishments)
– Form ZB (Intimation by existing Establishments)

click here to read the Notification

Source: https://www.tn.gov.in/go_view/dept/18

DRAFT AMENDMENTS TO THE CCI REGULATIONS, 2009

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DRAFT AMENDMENTS TO THE COMPETITION COMMISSION OF INDIA (GENERAL) REGULATIONS, 2009

CCI (Competition Commission of India) is amending its Regulations and the notification was released on June 6th 2024. Public Consultation is open and comments are invited from the public.

Consultation on draft ‘The Competition Commission of India (General) Regulations, 2009’ Back ground Note for the proposed amendment and proposed draft amendments are posted in the CCI’s portal. Sharing the links below for the same.


Background Note – https://cci.gov.in/images/stakeholderstopicsconsultations/en/background-note1717612208.pdf

Draft amendments – https://cci.gov.in/images/stakeholderstopicsconsultations/en/draft-amendments-to-the-cci-general-regulations-20091717612278.pdf

The stakeholders can submit written comments on the draft amendments to the Competition Commission of India (General) Regulations, 2009, within 30 (thirty) days from 06.06.2024 to 08.07.2024.

The stakeholders can submit their comments at the link shared below: https://cci.gov.in/stakeholders-consultations/30

source : https://cci.gov.in/stakeholders-topics-consultations

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