The ZED certification, pioneered by the Indian government, offers a structured pathway for manufacturing units to enhance quality, minimise environmental impact, and drive operational efficiency. 164,684 MSMEs have acquired the Zero Defect Zero Effect (ZED) certification, marking a significant achievement in quality standards.
Whether you’re a small-scale enterprise or a large corporation, if you’re committed to elevating your manufacturing standards, ZED certification is for you. This blog post delves into the ZED Scheme, covering its objectives, benefits, and eligibility criteria, exploring the ZED Maturity Assessment Model, and discussing financial support and implementation processes.
Understanding the ZED certification
The Financial Support to MSMEs in the ZED Certification Scheme, initiated by the Development Commissioner, Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), aims to bolster the global competitiveness of manufacturing MSMEs in India.
The ZED Rating scheme offers a comprehensive certification to ensure the thorough evaluation of various aspects within MSMEs. It focuses on critical areas such as quality, productivity, energy efficiency, pollution mitigation, financial status, human resources, and technological depth.
By encompassing product and process evaluation, the ZED Rating establishes a robust framework for enhancing overall organisational performance and competitiveness.
Objectives of the MSME ZED scheme
The ZED Scheme promotes Zero Defect and Zero Effect (ZED) manufacturing among MSMEs. Its primary objectives include:
1. Promoting adaptation of quality tools/systems and energy-efficient manufacturing.
2. Encouraging MSMEs to upgrade their quality standards in products and processes constantly.
3. Driving manufacturing by adopting zero-defect production processes without impacting the environment.
Major activities involved in the ZED certification scheme
The scheme encompasses various activities aimed at facilitating MSMEs in enhancing their manufacturing processes. These activities include:
1. Industry awareness programs and workshops.
2. Training of officials and master trainers.
3. International benchmarking and learning best practices.
4. Onsite training for capacity building in industrially backward areas.
5. Implementation of Management Information Systems (MIS) for effective monitoring.
6. Assessment, rating, certification, and re-rating processes.
Benefits to ZED-rated MSMEs
ZED certification offers many benefits to MSMEs, empowering them to improve their internal management and operational systems. Some key benefits include:
1. Improved processes leading to higher revenues and profitability.
2. Credible vendor database for global competitiveness.
3. Reduced negative environmental impact.
4. Recognition through awards and rewards.
5. Alignment with global best practices.
6. Enhanced visibility and brand recognition.
Eligibility for a ZED MSME certificate
All MSMEs registered under the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development (MSMED) Act, 2006, and those included per executive orders issued by the Additional Secretary & Development Commissioner (Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises), are eligible for ZED certification registration.
5. Environmental Management System (EMS) Documentation
6. Energy Management System (EnMS) Documentation
7. Safety Management Documentation
8. Human Resource Management Documentation
9. Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Documentation
10. Design Management Documentation
Implementation and governance
The Development Commissioner (MSME) implements the ZED certification scheme nationwide through the National Monitoring and Implementing Unit (NMIU). A Programme Monitoring and Advisory Committee (PMAC) provides guidance and direction. Various stakeholders collaborate as implementing agencies, including government bodies, industry associations, and autonomous bodies.
ZED Maturity Assessment Model
The ZED Maturity Assessment Model evaluates MSMEs on various parameters across disciplines such as Quality Management, Production Management, Environment Management, and Human Resource Management. Each parameter has five maturity levels, ranging from Learner to World Class.
Add the below content in Table Format
Maturity Level
Description
Level 1 (Learner)
Basic understanding, initial implementation
Level 2 (Beginner)
Some systems are in place, and starting to organise
Level 3 (Organised)
Structured processes, consistent implementation
Level 4 (Achiever)
Established systems, continuous improvement
Level 5 (World Class)
Best-in-class practices, industry benchmark
Ratings and certification
MSMEs are rated based on their scores in the ZED Maturity Assessment Model. Ratings include Bronze, Silver, Gold, Diamond, and Platinum, with corresponding score ranges. Quality Council of India issues a ZED certificate after reviewing site-assessment reports from accredited rating agencies.
Score range
Rating
0 – 2.2
No Rating
2.3 – 2.5
Bronze
2.6 – 3.0
Silver
3.1 – 3.5
Gold
3.6 – 4.0
Diamond
4.1 – 5.0
Platinum
ZED scheme process flow
The process flow of the ZED Scheme involves online registration, self-assessment, desktop assessment, site assessment or consultancy, and re-assessment if necessary. MSMEs can choose between site assessment and consultancy based on their requirements.
Financial support and fee structure
MSMEs can avail subsidies ranging from 50% to 80% based on size and location. The fee structure for various scheme components is outlined, with subsidies applicable per government guidelines.
Here’s the table representing the cost structure for the ZED certification scheme according to the size of the MSME:
No.
Component
Micro
Small
Medium
1
Registration and online self-assessment
No Cost
No Cost
No Cost
2
Desktop assessment
Rs. 2000 – Rs. 10,000
Rs. 4000 – Rs. 20,000
Rs. 5000 – Rs. 25,000
3
Site assessment
Rs. 16,000
Rs. 32,000
Rs. 40,000
4
Additional defence rating
Rs. 8,000
Rs. 16,000
Rs. 20,000
5
Gap analysis and handholding (optional)
Rs. 38,000
Rs. 76,000
Rs. 95,000
6
Re-assessment/Re-rating
Rs. 8,000
Rs. 16,000
Rs. 20,000
Final thoughts
The Financial Support to MSME ZED certification scheme is a transformative initiative aimed at enhancing the global competitiveness of Indian MSMEs. By promoting Zero Defect & Zero Effect manufacturing practices, the scheme empowers MSMEs to improve their quality standards, reduce environmental impact, and thrive in the global marketplace.
Through a structured assessment process, the ZED certificate offers recognition, credibility, and access to financial support, making it a vital tool for the growth and sustainability of MSMEs in India.
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11 June 2024
5 mins read
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