What is Bureau of Indian Standards License or Certificate in India ?

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the Indian agency that gives out certification of quality and safety. Through BIS certification or license manufacturers can gain consumers’ trust and show consumers that they are authentic in the Indian market. While some products can be registered voluntarily, the government mandates that some products be certified by BIS. This article discusses information on BIS certification, BIS programs and benefits, and how to obtain a BIS license.

Bureau of Indian Standards License?

Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) License is a quality assurance mark. Although a BIS Certificate license in India is mandatory for items such as electronics goods, safety appliances building materials etc must be certified. Through a BIS license, manufacturers can penetrate the Indian market and expand their business.

BIS License Certification Schemes

BIS provides several certification schemes to fulfil the demand gap of the manufacturer from domestic and international markets. 

1. Domestic Manufacturer Certification Scheme (ISI Mark):

The ISI Mark Scheme also known as the Domestic Manufacturer Certification Scheme is for domestic manufacturers in India. The ISI mark shows that an item is conforming to the relevant Indian standards set. To ‘use’ the ISI mark, manufacturers have to get a BIS license.

2. Foreign Manufacturer Certification Scheme (FMCS):

The Foreign Manufacturer Certification Scheme allows manufacturers from foreign countries to do business in this country. The FMCS has permitted the ISI mark for the products manufactured by foreign manufacturers if they conform to the Indian standard. This certificate does not apply to electronics and IT goods.

3. Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS):

The Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) is particularly implemented for electronics and IT products. It guarantees that goods brought and sold in India are safe. CRS policy requires manufacturers to register with BIS, get a registration number and put the mark of BIS on their products.

4. Hallmarking Scheme:

Hallmarking was initiated to set the purity standards of metals. It mandates that jewellers should get the BIS registration before selling gold and silver ornaments and jewellery. This certification also guarantees consumers about legal purities.

5. Eco Mark Scheme:

The Eco Mark Scheme encourages environmental conservation in product development. It is extendable to different categories including soaps, cosmetics, biscuits and any other edibles. Products labelled with the Eco Mark are environmentally friendly and safe to use because they conform to the recommended high quality.

Products Covered Under BIS License or Certification

The BIS requires certification for specific articles such as electronic goods, building materials, and consumer products. A complete list of items requiring BIS Product Certification includes:

• Mandatory BIS Certification Products: This consists of approximately 380 products. Certification is compulsory to sell these products in the Indian market.
• Voluntary BIS Certification Products: Manufacturers can also voluntarily certify 738 products to show that they have better quality.
• Apart from LED products, electronics and IT products, approximately 81 product categories are currently under the CRS scheme. 

Steps to Obtain Bureau of Indian Standards License Certification Online

The BIS Product Certification process includes some steps. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

1. Documentation: Assemble all needed documents including business and trademark permits.

2. Application Submission: Apply officially to BIS.

3. Scrutiny of Application: BIS will review the application to check that it meets the requirements.

4. Audit of Manufacturing Premises: A BIS official surveys the manufacturing place.

5. Sample Testing: Samples of products are taken and then analyzed to ensure they comply with standards.

6. Grant of License: If all requirements are fulfilled, then BIS grants a license to use the mark for the product.

Essential Documents Required While Applying a BIS License

• Licenses to do business and trademark
• Authorization letter
• Company catalogues, product brochures and engineering and technical data.
• List of testing equipment and manufacturing Machinery

Cost Factors in BIS License

Getting a BIS license is expensive. Typical expenses include:

1. Testing Charges: Depending on the type and characteristic features of the product.

2. Government Charges: Include fees for applying for covers, fees for auditors, and fees for marking.

3. Professional Charges: Expenses incurred for the consultancy services of attorneys during the certification of the company.

Conclusion

The BIS is the chief national agency responsible for defining, establishing, and maintaining standards of products and the safety of customers in India. Through the schemes such as Domestic Manufacturer Certification Scheme, Foreign Manufacturer Certification Scheme, and the Compulsory Registration Scheme all products are regulated to meet prescribed safety and quality standards. There are many advantages of BIS certification, including increased consumer trust and compliance with the legal requirements. 

Do you want professional help in BIS registration and compliance? Contact Agile Regulatory today for expert advice and consultation.