We welcome this initiative by the Government, as it is bound to increase employment and help achieve the required energy security in the country. The duty will give the necessary boost to solar cell and module manufacturers, and help protect the industry from the long standing challenge faced due to dumping.
More than 85 per cent of the modules in the country are imported, and non-utilisation of local manufacturing capacity has always been a challenge. Given the conducive environment, Indian manufactures are capable of innovation, product efficiency and quality. The initiative will help further more investment on R&D and disruptive technology. Safeguarding duty is bound to ensure that both domestic and imported products function on an even playing field. However, one of the foremost outcomes that we see is the promotion of ‘Make in India’ initiative, as more manufacturers enter the industry, thus creating new employment opportunities. However, clarity on the impact of safeguard duty on manufacturers (of solar cells and modules) in special economic zones would help bring the industry closer and further the sentiment of the proposal.
(In response to the safeguard duty proposed on imported solar cells and modules)
