BIS certification is a mandatory requirement for certain products imported into India to ensure they meet Indian quality and safety standards. Foreign manufacturers must obtain certification under the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) or Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) before selling their products in India.

Any foreign manufacturer producing goods covered under BIS mandatory certification schemes (FMCS or CRS) must obtain BIS certification before exporting to India.

Foreign manufacturers can apply for BIS certification under:

• Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) – For products that require an ISI Mark.
• Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) – For electronic and IT products.

The application process involves:

1. Identifying the applicable Indian standard (IS) for the product.
2. Submitting the application through the BIS portal.
3. Paying the required fees.
4. Undergoing a factory audit (for ISI mark).
5. Product testing in a BIS-approved laboratory.
6. Issuance of certification upon successful compliance.

• ISI Mark Certification (FMCS): Valid for 1 year, renewable annually.
• CRS Certification: Valid for 2 years, renewable thereafter.

BIS charges include:

• Application fee
• Audit and inspection fees
• Testing fees
• Annual marking fees

Fees vary based on the product and certification type.

Yes, for FMCS (ISI Mark) certification, BIS conducts a factory inspection to assess production capability, quality control, and testing facilities. However, for CRS certification, no factory inspection is required.

Foreign manufacturers must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) to interact with BIS and submit applications on their behalf.

• FMCS (ISI Mark): Typically takes 4–6 months.
• CRS Certification: Takes around 4–8 weeks.

If a product does not meet BIS standards, manufacturers must rectify non-conformities and reapply with necessary modifications.

Selling non-BIS-certified products in India (for categories under mandatory certification) can lead to legal actions, penalties, and product bans.

BIS regularly updates the list of products under mandatory certification on its official website: www.bis.gov.in.

BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) Certification is a mandatory certification for certain products that ensures they meet the required quality standards set by the Bureau of Indian Standards. The certification assures that the product is safe for use and complies with Indian regulatory standards.

CRS (Compulsory Registration Scheme) Registration is a specific certification process under BIS for certain electronic and electrical products. These products must comply with safety standards to be sold in the Indian market.

Manufacturers and importers of specific electronic products (like mobile phones, adapters, and laptops) need to apply for BIS CRS Registration if they intend to sell their products in India.

Electronic products such as mobile phones, laptops, and chargers fall under the CRS Registration scheme. A full list of products is available on the BIS website.

The application for BIS CRS Registration can be made online via the BIS website. Applicants need to submit the necessary documents and product test reports from BIS-recognized laboratories.

The key requirements include:

• Proof of product quality through test reports.
• Manufacturing unit details.
• A valid trade mark or brand name.
• Payment of required fees.

BIS CRS Registration is typically valid for 2 years. After this period, the registration needs to be renewed.

The process can take anywhere from 30 to 60 days, depending on the complexity of the application and the product type.

Common documents required include:

• Application form for CRS Registration.
• Proof of product testing from an accredited laboratory.
• Details of the manufacturing process.
• Product specification and description.
• Importer details (if applicable).

Selling or distributing products that require BIS CRS Registration without this certification is illegal. Products without certification may be seized, and the business could face penalties.

Yes, BIS charges a fee for CRS Registration. The amount varies depending on the type of product and the application process.

You can verify if a product has CRS Registration by checking the BIS website or by looking for the ISI mark on the product packaging.

Yes, foreign manufacturers can apply for BIS CRS Registration. They must ensure that their products meet Indian standards and have been tested at a BIS-recognized lab.

A BIS-recognized laboratory conducts the necessary tests on the product to ensure it meets the required safety and quality standards.

No, the CRS Registration is product-specific and is non-transferable. If another manufacturer intends to sell the same product, they must apply for their own registration.

Scheme-X is a certification framework under the BIS Conformity Assessment Regulations, 2018, specifically designed for low-voltage switchgear and controlgear products to ensure safety, performance, and compliance with Indian Standards.

Products include:

• Circuit breakers
• Switches
• Motor starters
• Proximity switches
• Emergency stop devices

And other related controlgear components. For the full list, visit this page.

Yes, it is compulsory for the listed electrical products sold in India. Non-compliance may lead to penalties under the BIS Act, 2016.

Any manufacturer, whether domestic or foreign, who wants to sell the listed products in India must apply for certification. Foreign manufacturers must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR).

• Initially: 1 year
• After renewal: Up to 5 years

• Third-party lab testing (BIS-recognized labs)
• Witness testing in presence of BIS officials
• In-house testing (if available and approved)

No. Testing must be done in BIS-recognized labs within India.

Includes:

• Application Fee: ₹2,000
• Certification Fee: ₹25,000/year
• Technical File Review: ₹20,000
• Inspection Charges: ₹7,000/day
• Marking Fee: Based on product & volume

Additional charges may apply for testing and foreign applicants.

Typically between 2–6 months, depending on:

• Product complexity
• Document readiness
• Testing timelines
• Factory inspection schedules

Only if they belong to the same product group and conform to the same Indian Standard. Otherwise, separate licenses are needed.

BIS may conduct surprise inspections, request market samples, and review internal testing records to ensure continued compliance.

E-Waste (Electronic Waste) refers to discarded electronic and electrical devices such as computers, mobile phones, TVs, refrigerators, and batteries. These products contain hazardous materials and must be disposed of responsibly.

EPR is a policy approach where manufacturers, importers, and brand owners of electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) are responsible for collecting, recycling, and disposing of e-waste generated from their products.

EPR Registration is mandatory for:

• • Manufacturers of electronic/electrical goods
• • Importers of electronic products
• • Brand Owners selling under their own label
• • Producers involved in electronic goods distribution

You can apply online via the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) EPR portal by submitting:

• • Business registration documents
• • EPR plan (collection & recycling strategy)
• • Agreement with authorized e-waste recyclers
• • Import-export code (if applicable)

• • Company PAN & GST Registration
• • Certificate of Incorporation
• • EPR Plan & Collection Mechanism Details
• • Agreement with CPCB-approved recyclers
• • Annual production/import details

Failure to comply with EPR regulations can lead to:

• • Fines & penalties under the Environment Protection Act, 1986
• • Cancellation of EPR authorization
• • Import restrictions on non-compliant companies

RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) compliance ensures that electronic products do not contain hazardous materials like lead, mercury, and cadmium beyond permissible limits.

• No. Selling electronic products without an EPR registration is illegal in India and can result in penalties.

• EPR Authorization is valid for 5 years and must be renewed before expiry.

• ✔ Use authorized e-waste collection centers or drop-off points.
• ✔ Avoid dumping electronic waste in landfills.
• ✔ Check if brands offer take-back programs or exchange offers.

Plastic waste management refers to the systematic handling, collection, recycling, and disposal of plastic waste to minimize its environmental impact.

Improperly managed plastic waste can pollute land, water, and air, harm wildlife, and pose health risks to humans. Managing it properly helps protect ecosystems and supports sustainable development.

Plastic waste is typically categorized into:

• • Rigid plastics (bottles, containers)
• • Flexible plastics (bags, wrappers)
• • Multi-layered packaging
• • Foam plastics (like thermocol)

EPR is a policy where producers are made responsible for the collection, recycling, or disposal of plastic packaging they place in the market, even after the consumer has used it.

• • Segregate plastic waste from organic and other waste.
• • Clean and dry plastic containers before disposal.
• • Participate in local recycling or collection programs.
• • Reduce usage of single-use plastics.

Most rigid plastics (like PET, HDPE) are recyclable. However, some flexible and multi-layered plastics are harder to recycle and may require specialized processes.

Local bodies are responsible for setting up collection, segregation, and recycling systems and ensuring waste reaches authorized recyclers or processors.

It is usually sorted, cleaned, shredded, and processed into granules or flakes that are reused to manufacture new plastic products.

They help reduce plastic pollution but require proper industrial composting conditions. They are not a complete replacement for recycling systems.

• • Use reusable bags, bottles, and containers.
• • Avoid products with excessive plastic packaging.
• • Educate others about responsible plastic use.

While plastic doesn't truly disappear, it breaks down into smaller pieces called microplastics, which can persist for hundreds of years.
Some plastics, like bottles and disposable diapers, can take 450 years to degrade, while other items like straws can take up to 200 years.
Microplastics can accumulate in the food chain, potentially entering human food and water.

Only a small percentage of plastic waste is actually recycled.
Many plastic types are not easily recycled due to contamination or complex structures.
Recycled plastic can sometimes degrade in quality, leading to a "downcycling" effect.

Bioplastics: Made from renewable resources like cornstarch or plant fibers, but they may not be suitable for all applications and require specific disposal methods.

Reusable materials: Glass, metal, and other materials offer reusable alternatives to single-use plastics.

Reduced packaging: Opting for products with minimal packaging or choosing bulk options can reduce plastic waste.

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that can enter the environment and food chain.
They can be ingested by marine life, potentially impacting human health.
They can also absorb pollutants, further increasing environmental and health risks.

The problem of plastic pollution is complex and involves various actors, including producers, consumers, and governments.

Producers: Bear significant responsibility for reducing plastic consumption and improving waste management.
Consumers: Can contribute by reducing their plastic consumption and practicing responsible waste disposal.
Governments: Need to implement policies and regulations such as plastic bag bans and extended producer responsibility programs.

Battery waste management refers to the proper collection, recycling, and disposal of used batteries to prevent environmental pollution and promote sustainable waste handling practices.

Batteries contain hazardous substances like lead, mercury, cadmium, and lithium, which can harm the environment and human health if not disposed of properly. Effective battery waste management helps reduce pollution, conserve resources, and promote sustainable recycling.

EPR is a policy approach that holds battery manufacturers, importers, and brand owners responsible for collecting, recycling, and disposing of used batteries in an environmentally friendly manner.

Manufacturers, importers, assemblers, recyclers, and bulk consumers of batteries must register with the relevant government authorities to comply with waste management regulations.

Some of the essential documents include:

• • Company registration certificate
• • GST registration
• • PAN card of the company
• • EPR authorization application
• • Waste collection & recycling agreements
• • Compliance reports and financial statements

Consumers should return used batteries to designated collection centers, recycling facilities, or authorized retailers instead of throwing them in regular trash bins.

Collected batteries undergo sorting, disassembly, and material recovery processes. Valuable metals like lithium, lead, and nickel are extracted and reused, while hazardous components are safely disposed of.

Yes, failure to comply with battery waste management regulations may result in fines, legal action, or suspension of business operations, depending on the country's laws.

Most regulations cover all types of batteries, including:

• • Lead-acid batteries
• • Lithium-ion batteries
• • Nickel-cadmium batteries
• • Alkaline batteries
• • Other rechargeable and non-rechargeable batteries

Battery recycling helps:

• • Reduce toxic waste in landfills
• • Conserve natural resources by recovering valuable materials
• • Lower carbon emissions by reducing the need for new raw materials
• • Prevent soil and water contamination from hazardous chemicals

LMPC registration is a mandatory license for importers, manufacturers, and packers of pre-packaged commodities under the Legal Metrology Act, 2009.

Any person or company that imports, manufactures, or packs pre-packaged goods for sale, distribution, or delivery in India.

Yes. Without LMPC registration, Customs will not allow clearance of imported packaged goods.

You must apply to the Controller of Legal Metrology in your respective state or to the Director of Legal Metrology (for central registration, especially for importers).

Typically valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on the state's regulations. It is renewable.

Non-compliance can lead to:

• Seizure of goods
• Fines
• Legal action under the Legal Metrology Act

Mandatory declarations include:

• Name & address of importer/packer
• Country of origin (for imports)
• Net quantity
• MRP (incl. all taxes)
• Date of import/packing
• Customer care details

If the goods are sold only to industrial or institutional consumers, you may be exempt under Rule 27.

Yes. A single registration can cover multiple SKUs or product types, but all must be declared at the time of application.

Generally, 7–15 working days, but it may vary by state.

WPC (Wireless Planning & Coordination) approval is mandatory for importing and selling wireless devices in India. It includes:

• ETA (Equipment Type Approval) for de-licensed frequency devices
• Import License for wireless products
• Frequency License for licensed bands

Wireless devices using de-licensed frequency bands, like:

• Wi-Fi Routers & Modems
• Bluetooth Headphones, Earbuds
• RFID Devices
• IoT Smart Devices (Watches, Meters, Home Automation)
• Wireless POS Machines

• RF Test Report (ILAC/NABL certified lab)
• Product Datasheet
• Company Registration Certificate
• Import Export Code (IEC)
• Self-Declaration Letter

After getting ETA, an Import License is required for importing wireless devices. It applies to RF product importers and businesses.

The process usually takes 1 weeks, depending on document verification and application accuracy.

Yes. ILAC-accredited international test reports and NABL-accredited Indian reports are accepted.

Some products also require BIS certification under CRS, such as:

• Wi-Fi Routers, Modems
• Smartphones, Laptops, Smartwatches
• Power Banks, LED Displays

WPC and BIS are separate and may both be required.

It ranges between depending on frequency testing and third-party service fees.

The certificate is valid for a lifetime unless the RF specifications of the product change.

• Walkie-Talkies (e.g., 446 MHz): Require only ETA
• Drones: Need ETA for modules + DGCA clearance

No. Only registered businesses (companies, importers, manufacturers) can apply.

If it uses wireless tech (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, etc.), check your RF report for de-licensed bands. Likely, ETA is needed.

FSSAI stands for Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. It is a regulatory body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, responsible for setting food safety standards, monitoring food businesses, and ensuring that food products are safe for consumption.

FSSAI registration is mandatory for all food business operators (FBOs) to ensure that food products meet safety standards. It ensures the safety, hygiene, and quality of food products for consumers.

Any individual or organization involved in the production, manufacturing, processing, packaging, storage, or distribution of food items in India needs to register with FSSAI. This applies to:

• Food manufacturers
• Restaurant owners
• Distributors
• Retailers
• Importers/exporters of food products

FSSAI issues three types of licenses:

• Basic Registration: For small-scale food businesses with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakh.
• State License: For medium-sized food businesses with a turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore.
• Central License: For large food businesses with a turnover above ₹20 crore or operating in multiple states.

The processing time depends on the type of registration:

• Basic Registration: Approximately 7 days.
• State License: Approximately 15 days.
• Central License: Approximately 25 days.

FSSAI registration and licenses are valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on the type of registration or license. They can be renewed before expiration.

Food business operators who operate without a valid FSSAI registration or license can face fines, penalties, or even suspension of their operations. The penalty can range from ₹25,000 to ₹5 lakh, depending on the violation.

Documents required depend on the type of registration:

• Basic Registration: ID proof, address proof, passport-size photograph, business details.
• State License: Food safety management plan, business premises details, list of food products, and more.
• Central License: Import-export code, FSMS plan, water quality reports, and more.

Yes, FSSAI allows businesses to apply for registration and licensing online through the FSSAI website or the Food Licensing and Registration System (FLRS) portal.

You can track the status of your FSSAI registration or license application through the FLRS portal by logging in with your credentials.

FSSAI works to educate the public on the importance of safe and hygienic food consumption through awareness campaigns, training programs, and educational materials.

FSSAI registration cannot be transferred. If a business changes ownership, a new application for FSSAI registration or licensing must be submitted.

FSMS (Food Safety Management System) is a system set up by FSSAI for food businesses to manage and monitor food safety at every stage of food production, processing, storage, and distribution.

CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organization) is India’s national regulatory authority for pharmaceuticals, medical devices, cosmetics, and clinical trials. It functions under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

CDSCO registration is required for:

• Drugs (including vaccines, APIs, FDCs)
• Medical devices (as per MDR 2017 classification)
• In-vitro diagnostic devices
• Cosmetics (imported into India)

SUGAM is the official online portal used to apply for CDSCO licenses, approvals, and registrations. It simplifies regulatory submissions and communication with CDSCO.

• Indian manufacturers directly
• Foreign manufacturers must appoint an Authorized Indian Agent with a valid wholesale drug license.

The registration certificate is typically valid for 5 years, unless otherwise specified.

Devices are classified into four categories under Medical Device Rules, 2017:

• Class A – Low risk
• Class B – Low to moderate risk
• Class C – Moderate to high risk
• Class D – High risk

Yes, site inspections may be conducted for certain product categories, especially high-risk medical devices or new drug applications.

On average, it takes about 2.5 to 4 months, depending on product type and response time to queries.

You must respond with the required clarification/documents within the given time. Delay in responses may extend the review timeline.

No. You must receive a valid registration certificate or import license from CDSCO before marketing or selling the product in India.

The BEE is a statutory body under the Ministry of Power, Government of India, established under the Energy Conservation Act, 2001. Its mission is to develop policies and programs to promote energy efficiency and conservation across all sectors.

BEE certification ensures that electrical appliances and industrial equipment meet certain energy efficiency standards. It helps reduce energy consumption and promotes sustainable energy use.

A BEE Star Label is a mark affixed to products to indicate their energy efficiency rating, ranging from 1-star (least efficient) to 5-star (most efficient). It helps consumers make informed buying decisions.

As of now, products like:
- Air Conditioners
- Refrigerators
- LED Lamps
- Distribution Transformers
- Geysers
...are under the mandatory labeling scheme.

Mandatory labeling: Required by law before the product can be sold.
Voluntary labeling: Optional, but recommended for market and consumer benefits.

Manufacturers must register as a brand on the BEE S&L portal, get their product tested at a NABL-accredited lab, and submit all required documents and fees online for model registration.

Star Labels are usually valid for 1 to 3 years, depending on the product category. Renewal is required before expiry.

Yes. Importers or foreign manufacturers selling products in India must comply with BEE regulations for covered products.

Non-compliance can result in label rejection, penalties, or ban from sale in the Indian market for covered categories.

Consumers can visit the official portal https://beestarlabel.com and use the search feature to check registered models and their ratings.

MTCTE stands for Mandatory Testing and Certification of Telecommunication Equipment. It ensures telecom equipment meets Indian standards.

Manufacturers (Indian or foreign) or their Authorized Indian Representatives (AIRs) must apply before selling or importing telecom equipment in India.

Yes, it is mandatory for notified telecom products before they can be imported or sold in India.

The certificate is valid for 5 years from the date of issuance.

Yes, but they must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) to apply on their behalf.

Yes. Testing must be carried out in TEC-designated labs (CABs) located in India.

Equipment like routers, switches, mobile phones, smart devices, optical fiber gear, etc. The list is notified by TEC in phases.

Applications must be submitted via the official MTCTE Portal.

Costs vary based on the product category and lab testing fees. There’s also a TEC application fee depending on equipment type.

It is illegal. Such products can be seized, and legal action can be taken under Indian telecom law.

Self-Declaration of Conformity (SDoC): A simplified process for low-risk equipment categories allowing certification based on self-certification.

No. Only test reports from Indian TEC-designated CABs are accepted under MTCTE.

No. Each model/variant must undergo certification, although families of similar models can sometimes be grouped under a single certificate.

Generally, 3 to 7 weeks, depending on product complexity, lab timelines, and TEC review speed.

Yes. TEC can suspend/cancel a certificate in case of non-compliance, safety concerns, or false information.

ISO Certification is a formal approval from an accredited body that a company’s processes, products, or services meet the requirements of an ISO standard.

It enhances credibility, improves operational efficiency, ensures quality, increases customer satisfaction, and can open doors to new markets.

It depends on your business type and goals. For example:

ISO 9001: Quality Management
ISO 27001: Information Security
ISO 22000: Food Safety
ISO 14001: Environmental Management

The timeframe depends on the organization’s size and readiness. Typically, it can take 1 to 6 months.

No, it’s voluntary. However, it is often required by clients, regulatory bodies, or for participation in certain tenders.

ISO certificates are usually valid for 3 years, with annual surveillance audits.

Accredited certification bodies (not ISO itself) conduct audits and issue certificates.

It’s a follow-up audit (typically done annually) to ensure that the organization is still complying with ISO standards.

The cost varies based on the ISO standard, company size, number of locations, and complexity. It includes audit, documentation, and consultancy fees.

Yes, ISO certification is suitable for businesses of all sizes, including startups and SMEs.

You will be given a chance to correct non-conformities and undergo a re-audit before certification can be granted.

Not directly. ISO ensures a quality management system, which in turn helps consistently deliver quality products or services.