【India BIS】India BIS Amends Scheme I Regulations: Automatic Licence Suspension for Electrical Appliances
For manufacturers exporting household and similar electrical appliances to the Indian market, ensuring product compliance with the IS 302 (Part 1): 2008 safety standard is the core of obtaining BIS certification. With the implementation of the 2026 Conformity Assessment (Amendment) Regulations, enterprises must pay close attention to changes in administrative procedures in addition to technical compliance.
I. Technical Level: Core Requirements of the IS 302-1 Safety Standard
IS 302 (Part 1) is the fundamental regulation for electrical safety in India, covering single-phase appliances with a rated voltage not exceeding 250V.
- Testing Scope: Includes protection against electric shock, starting power consumption and current, resistance to humidity, overload protection, stability, mechanical hazards, and construction inspection.
- Applicable Products: Household appliances such as rice cookers, electric water heaters, vacuum cleaners, and electric irons.
- Mandatory Labeling: Products must be marked with the “Standard Mark” and clearly display the rated voltage, power consumption, manufacturer name, and country of origin.
II. Administrative Level: Major Changes in 2026 BIS Regulations
According to the latest government gazette published on February 25, 2026, the license management mechanism has undergone significant adjustments. Manufacturers are urged to take note of the following:
- Significant Extension of License Validity: For household appliance products, the initial grant and subsequent renewals of BIS licenses (Scheme-I/CRS) can now be applied for a duration of up to 5 years, greatly reducing the administrative burden of frequent renewals.
- “Annual Advance Payment” System for Fees: All fees required to maintain the validity of the license must be paid annually in advance. Manufacturers who fail to pay the fees and submit the “Production Statement” before the deadline will face an automatic 90-day license suspension.
- Removal of Buffer Notification: The new regulation abolishes the 21-day notice period previously given before a suspension due to non-payment. If the fees remain unpaid at the end of the suspension period, the license will be directly cancelled.
- MSME and Startup Incentives: Manufacturers qualified as MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) or Start-ups can apply for a fee reduction of up to 80% (valid until May 2029).
III. Expert Compliance Recommendations
Special reminders for manufacturers with production facilities located outside of India:
- AIR (Authorized Indian Representative): Ensure that your AIR has signed the latest version of the compliance statement and affidavit.
- Early Preparation: It is recommended to begin annual fee settlements and production data consolidation three months prior to the license expiry date to avoid license invalidation caused by technical delays.
For further inquiries, please contact:
Email：Charles.liao@theonelab.co
Phone：(02)8601-2828
