GHS in the Indian Context: India has not fully adopted GHS, but it is moving towards alignment with GHS principles

 The Globally Harmonized System (GHS) is an international system for classifying and labeling chemicals to ensure consistent hazard communication. While India has not formally adopted GHS as a whole, it has been incorporating elements of GHS into its chemical regulations. Specifically, India's draft chemical law, the Chemical (Management and Safety) Rules (ICMSR), proposes adopting the eighth revised edition of GHS, including 16-section Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and using English and Hindi languages. 

Here's a more detailed look:

What is GHS?

GHS aims to standardize the classification and communication of chemical hazards, promoting both workplace and environmental safety. 

It provides a unified system for hazard communication through labels and SDS, ensuring consistent information across different countries. 

GHS is not a legally binding treaty but rather a framework for national and regional regulations. 

GHS in the Indian Context:

India has not fully adopted GHS, but it is moving towards alignment with GHS principles.

The draft ICMSR, which is still under consideration, outlines India's plan to implement GHS, specifically the eighth revision, with 16-section SDS and dual language support.

Existing regulations, like the Manufacture, Storage, and Import of Hazardous Chemical Rules, 1989, have some SDS requirements, but they are not as comprehensive as the GHS standard.

India's Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) also published draft legislation in 2011, the Hazardous Substances (Classification, Packaging and Labelling) Rules, focusing on responsibilities for handling hazardous substances. 

Harmonized System (HS) Codes:

The Harmonized System (HS) Codes are used for classifying goods for customs and trade purposes. 

India uses an eight-digit Indian Tariff Code that aligns with the international HS codes. 

HS codes are essential for customs procedures, trade facilitation, and ensuring accurate product classification. 

In summary: While India is in the process of aligning its chemical regulations with the GHS framework, it has already implemented elements of the system and is actively working towards full adoption. HS codes, on the other hand, are already in use for customs and trade, facilitating international commerce.