As India looks to strengthen its circular economy in electronics, repair is emerging as a critical lever to extend product life and reduce waste. A skilling initiative led by Google, in collaboration with the Sustainable Electronics Recycling International (SERI), is now translating that approach into on-ground capacity through a structured repair ecosystem in Telangana.

The Mobile Repair Accelerator Program, launched under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Telangana, marked its progress at an industry event on March 16, bringing together stakeholders from government, industry, skill development institutions, and the wider electronics repair ecosystem.

The program will be delivered through a network of partners. The Telecom Sector Skill Council (TSSC) serves as the certification partner, while BRITCO and BRIDCO are responsible for training delivery. Stellar provides specialised data erasure software training. It aims to train 100 candidates as junior mobile repair technicians through a combination of classroom learning and hands-on practical training. The curriculum includes mobile device diagnostics, component replacement, troubleshooting techniques, and basic training on data-erasing software. It also introduces participants to sustainable electronics practices and the importance of extending product lifecycles through repair—placing circularity at the core of the training model.

Google said in a statement, “We are proud to fund this programme, which strengthens Google's commitment to the goal of circularity. Repairable by design, our Pixel phones align with the vision and mission of repair. The program supports the growing Right-to-Repair movement in India, which promotes easier access to repair services, spare parts, and technical knowledge so that consumers can extend the life of their electronic devices.”

Meanwhile, SERI, in a statement, informed, “To reach our 10/35 Vision, whereby by 2035 it is common for electronics to have 10-year lifespans and all materials reused at the end of life, strong repair ecosystems are a vital component. We are pleased to be part of the Mobile Repair Accelerator collaboration and are proud of the positive impacts that the program is already producing.”