Complete Guide to BIS Certification and Schemes in India: Process, Importance, and Benefits

BIS Certification plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety, quality, and standardization of products in India. The Bureau of Indian Standards, also known as BIS, is the national standards body responsible for certifying products under various schemes. BIS certification is not just a formality; it is a mandatory compliance requirement for many product categories, both manufactured locally and imported from other countries.

EVTL India, a trusted compliance partner, simplifies the entire BIS certification process and supports companies in meeting all regulatory requirements smoothly.

What is BIS Certification?

BIS certification is an approval granted by the Bureau of Indian Standards to manufacturers or importers, confirming that a product complies with the Indian safety and quality standards. It is a symbol of trust that assures customers that the product is safe to use and meets the prescribed Indian Standards (IS).

Manufacturers must obtain BIS certification for products covered under compulsory certification schemes before selling them in the Indian market.

Why is BIS Certification Important?

The importance of BIS certification goes beyond just compliance. Here are some key reasons why it is crucial:

• Ensures the safety and reliability of products for consumers

• Promotes standardization and quality in manufacturing

• Prevents the import or sale of substandard or unsafe products

• Builds consumer trust and brand credibility

• Helps in smooth customs clearance for importers

• Required for participating in government tenders and contracts

In short, BIS certification protects both consumers and businesses by ensuring high product quality and safety.

BIS Certification Scheme in India

The Bureau of Indian Standards operates several certification schemes for different types of products. These schemes are designed to cover the wide range of industrial, commercial, and consumer goods available in the market. The three major BIS certification schemes are:

1. ISI Mark Scheme (Product Certification Scheme)

This is the most popular BIS scheme, applicable for both Indian manufacturers and foreign manufacturers. It is meant for products covered under the mandatory certification list.

Under this scheme:

• Manufacturers must produce goods according to the applicable Indian Standard (IS).

• The ISI mark is granted after successful testing and inspection.

• Periodic surveillance audits are carried out by BIS.

Products under the ISI mark scheme include cement, steel, kitchen appliances, electrical equipment, etc.

2. Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS)

The Compulsory Registration Scheme is applicable mainly to electronic and IT products. This scheme is governed by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).

Features of CRS:

• Manufacturers must get their products registered with BIS before selling them in India.

• Registration is granted based on self-declaration after product testing in a BIS-recognized lab.

• No BIS factory inspection is required under this scheme.

Some products under CRS include LED lights, power banks, laptops, mobile phones, etc.

3. Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS)

This scheme is specially designed for foreign manufacturers who want to sell their products in India. Under FMCS:

• BIS grants certification after factory inspection at the foreign location.

• Product samples are tested in BIS-approved Indian labs.

• This scheme applies to both industrial and consumer products.

FMCS ensures that imported products meet Indian safety and quality standards.

Important BIS Certificates You Should Know

There are a few key certificates issued by BIS depending on the product type and certification scheme. These include:

1. BIS ISI Certificate

Issued for products under the ISI Mark scheme after testing and inspection. The certificate allows the manufacturer to use the ISI logo on their product packaging.

2. BIS CRS Certificate

Issued for electronic and IT products under the Compulsory Registration Scheme. It allows the use of the BIS standard mark and registration number.

3. FMCS License

Granted to foreign manufacturers after a thorough inspection and testing process. This license is required to sell imported products in the Indian market.

Each of these certificates is valid for a specific duration and must be renewed regularly to maintain compliance.

Process of Getting BIS Certification

The process of getting BIS certification varies based on the scheme and type of product. Here is a simplified step-by-step process:

1. Determine Applicability
   Check if your product is under the list of BIS mandatory items.

2. Choose the Right Scheme
   Based on the product type (electrical, electronics, industrial, consumer goods), select the applicable certification scheme.

3. Product Testing
   Send your product samples to a BIS-recognized lab for testing as per Indian Standards.

4. Document Submission
   Prepare and submit required documents like business licenses, manufacturing process details, test reports, and technical data.

5. Factory Audit (if required)
   For ISI and FMCS schemes, a BIS officer may conduct an on-site audit of your manufacturing unit.

6. Grant of License
   Once all steps are complete and your product complies with the standards, BIS issues a certificate or license.

BIS Schemes in India and Their Applications

India has made several BIS certification schemes mandatory for various products over the years to ensure consumer protection. Some of the BIS schemes and their applications include:

• Household electrical items like switches, wiring cables, circuit breakers

• Cement and construction materials

• Food containers made of metal and plastic

• Pressure cookers and gas cylinders

• Toys for children (as per safety norms)

• IT and electronic gadgets

• Automotive components and accessories

These schemes not only boost domestic manufacturing quality but also create a strong foundation for exporting Indian goods globally.

How EVTL India Can Help with BIS Certification

EVTL India is a professional consultancy that assists businesses in getting BIS certification quickly and easily. Whether you are a startup or an established manufacturer or importer, EVTL India provides end-to-end support including:

• Identifying applicable BIS standards for your product

• Coordinating product testing with BIS labs

• Preparing all necessary documents

• Managing BIS inspections and audits

• Liaising with BIS officials for smooth certification

• Renewal and ongoing compliance support

Our experience and expert team ensure that your compliance journey is stress-free and successful.

Conclusion

EVTL India is one of the leading BIS Consultant in India, helping manufacturers obtain their BIS licences hassle-free. BIS certification is essential for maintaining the quality and safety of products sold in India. With various schemes like ISI, CRS, and FMCS, it covers a broad range of industries. Understanding BIS schemes in India and the importance of the right certification can help you stay compliant and competitive in the market. Partnering with a trusted consultant like EVTL India ensures your certification process is smooth, timely, and hassle-free.