Among the most impactful innovations has been the Unified Payments Interface (UPI). With over 10 billion transactions recorded in 2023–24, digital payments have moved beyond being an option—they've become a way of life. Remarkably, this technology hasn't remained confined to large enterprises but has reached small vendors and the informal sector as well.
But QR codes are no longer just about payments. They have become powerful tools for information and transparency. From medicine bottles to packaged food containers, QR codes are everywhere. India now ranks second globally, after China, in QR code scans—a transformation driven not by advertising, but by everyday utility.
Digitizing Laws: A Step Toward Transparent Governance
On August 16, 2024, India’s Ministry of Agriculture proposed a significant amendment to pesticide regulations under the Pesticides (Fourth Amendment) Rules, 2024. The objective: simplify the licensing process for domestic-use pesticides and make it more transparent through digital tools.
The proposal includes:
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Removing the need for license renewals,
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Reducing the processing time from 90 to 30 days,
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And most notably, making QR codes on packaging mandatory.
These QR codes would link consumers directly to a verified website containing product information such as ingredients, usage instructions, safety precautions, and manufacturer credentials.
A Solution for Both Utility and Sustainability
India generates 145,000 metric tons of solid waste annually, a significant portion of which is paper and cardboard. However, only 30% of this is recycled, compared to the global average of 58%.
QR codes offer an eco-friendly solution: ✔️ Eliminate repeated printing costs,
✔️ Reduce unnecessary paper usage,
✔️ Allow instant updates without reprinting.
Unlike printed inserts that quickly become outdated or lost, a QR code acts like a “live document”, constantly updatable and accessible.
A Win-Win for Manufacturers
For businesses, adopting QR-based systems cuts down on physical printing and distribution costs. These savings can be reinvested in R&D, quality control, or consumer awareness initiatives. Moreover, regulatory bodies can instantly update or recall a product by simply modifying the linked digital content—without touching the physical inventory.
Potential Beyond Pesticides
This model has wider applicability. Sectors such as FMCG, pharmaceuticals, education, real estate, and even public transport could benefit from QR-based information systems. Ministries like Health can leverage this to improve product traceability and consumer trust.
More Than Technology—A Shift in Mindset
Digitization isn’t just a tech upgrade; it’s a new model of governance and public engagement. Information is no longer static, printed on paper—it’s real-time, verified, and accessible with a single scan.
QR codes are ushering in a new era of transparency, accountability, and sustainability.
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