India has implemented a ban on the import of air conditioners (ACs) with refrigerants, as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to promote self-reliance through domestic manufacturing. The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) announced the amendment in import policy, changing the status from free to prohibited, according to a notification issued on Thursday.

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry, responsible for non-essential electronic goods, has been overseeing the drive for self-reliance in various sectors. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has specifically highlighted air conditioners as a product category where enhanced self-sufficiency is crucial. In June, he emphasized the need to reduce the more than 30 percent dependency on imports for air conditioners, stating it was imperative for the country. This move aligns with the Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan, the government’s self-reliance campaign.

Furthermore, in July, the government also imposed restrictions on the import of various color TV sets as part of its broader strategy to bolster domestic manufacturing.