Hygiene Rating Audit (HRA)
ZED (Zero Defect Zero Effect) Certification is a Government of India initiative, launched by the Ministry of MSME, to promote quality manufacturing and environmental sustainability among Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs),Start-ups engaged in manufacturing or service activities. The scheme encourages businesses to produce defect-free products (Zero Defect) while ensuring minimal environmental impact (Zero Effect). ZED certification evaluates an organization’s processes, systems, and outcomes against defined quality, safety, environmental, and sustainability standards. ZED certification is awarded at different maturity levels (Bronze, Silver and Gold), reflecting the organization’s degree of excellence and continuous improvement.
Benefits of ZED Certification
- Reduction in defects, rework, and wastage
- Efficient use of resources, energy, and materials
- Lower pollution, emissions, and environmental risks
- Enhanced trust among customers, buyers, and stakeholders
- Eligibility for subsidies, incentives, and schemes
- Alignment with international quality and sustainability practices
- Reducing certification cost
- Improving access to subsidies and schemes
- Enhancing creditworthiness
- Increasing business opportunities and revenue
Government Incentives:
The government subsidizes a major portion of the certification and assessment fees:
- Micro Enterprises: up to 80% subsidy
- Small Enterprises: up to 60% subsidy
- Medium Enterprises: up to 50% subsidy
- 5% to MSMEs which are also a part of the SFURTI OR Micro & Small Enterprises - Cluster Development Programme (MSE-CDP) of the Ministry
- 10% MSMEs in NER/ Himalayan/ LWE/ Island territories/ aspirational districts and MSME owned by SC/ST
- 100% Free to MSMEs owned by Women
This significantly reduces the cost burden of certification and audits.