BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards): Full Form, Meaning, and Certification

Discover the significance of BIS, certification process, and its importance in quality assurance.
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3 min
10 November 2025

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) ensures the quality, safety, and reliability of products in India. This guide examines its key functions, certification procedures, and support systems for industries, emphasizing how BIS standards serve both manufacturers and consumers. It offers readers a clear understanding of standardisation, compliance, and the delivery of dependable, high-quality products across various sectors.

What is Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)?

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) serves as India’s national authority for standardization, overseeing the formulation of standards and the certification of products. Functioning under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, BIS sets quality benchmarks and upholds them through diverse conformity assessment programs, ensuring the safety and reliability of products for both consumers and industries.

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Roles and responsibilities of Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)

● Standardisation: Develops and promotes Indian Standards (IS) for products, services, and systems to ensure quality, safety, and reliability.
● Product Certification: Administers various certification schemes, including the mandatory and voluntary ISI Mark and the Hallmarking Scheme for gold and silver, to verify compliance with Indian Standards.
● Quality Assurance: Safeguards the quality and safety of goods and services in the marketplace, protecting consumers from health risks and substandard products.
● Enforcement and Compliance: Ensures adherence to standards through product inspections and testing of manufacturing facilities, taking action against unauthorised use of its marks.
● Consumer Awareness: Organises training and awareness initiatives for consumers, businesses, and organisations to highlight the significance of standards.
● International Cooperation: Represents India in international standardisation bodies such as ISO and IEC, and works towards harmonising Indian standards with global benchmarks.
● Import and Export Facilitation: Collaborates with customs authorities to ensure imported goods comply with Indian standards, while supporting Indian exports by aligning them with international norms.
● Laboratory Services: Offers laboratory testing and calibration facilities to support product conformity assessment.

Structure of Bureau of Indian Standards

● Governing Body: The Executive Committee determines policy, with the President serving as its head.
● Standard Formulation: Operates through a hierarchical committee structure comprising:
 ● Standards Advisory Committee: Supervises the activities of all technical committees.
 ● Division Councils: Oversee standards related to specific industries and technologies.
 ● Sectional Committees: Concentrate on particular subjects and propose new standards or revisions.
 ● Sub-committees, Panels, and Working Groups: Established by Sectional Committees to undertake specialised tasks.
● Regional and Branch Offices:
 ● Headquarters: Based in New Delhi.
 ● Regional Offices (ROs): Located in Mumbai (Western), Chennai (Southern), Delhi (Central), Kolkata (Eastern), and Chandigarh (Northern).
 ● Branch Offices (BOs): Situated in various cities under the respective ROs, providing services and acting as a liaison with local industries and institutions.

Functions of Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)

● Standardisation: Developing and updating Indian Standards across various sectors of the economy to ensure quality, safety, and alignment with international standards.
● Certification:
 ● Product Certification: Granting licences, such as the ISI Mark, to products that comply with Indian Standards.
 ● Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS): Registering products that require mandatory certification to safeguard consumer health and safety.
 ● Management System Certification: Certifying the quality management systems of organisations.
 ● Hallmarking: Providing assurance of purity for gold and silver jewellery.
● Laboratory Services: Offering laboratory testing facilities to support standardisation and quality control.
● Consumer Affairs and Promotion: Undertaking consumer-focused initiatives to raise awareness of standards and product quality.
● Information and Training: Delivering information services and conducting training programmes at both national and international levels.
● Enforcement: Acting against the misuse of the Standard Mark through inspections, investigations, and legal proceedings.

How BIS supports Industry and Consumers

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) plays a crucial role in supporting businesses and consumers by maintaining quality and safety standards of the products in the Indian market. 

For manufacturers

  1. Standardisation
    The BIS registration and certification ensure the production of high-quality products that comply with the Indian standards to meet national and international quality & safety requirements. 
  2. Certified products
    The products manufactured according to the national standards are certified and maintain a consistent quality, safety, and durability that increases the sales and profits of the manufacturers. 
  3. Training and Support
    The BIS officials also conduct regular workshops, seminars, and training to educate manufacturers about the policies, regulations, and certification process to maintain compliance with the national quality standards. 
  4. Market Access and Brand Reputation
    Manufacturing, importing, and selling the products according to the regulations of BIS grants manufacturers easy market access, enhanced brand reputation, and credibility of their products. 

For Consumers

  1. Assurance of Quality
    The certification of BIS, such as ISI mark, CRS, and Scheme X, helps consumers to make better purchases in the market that they are able to trust. 
  2. Grievance and redressal
    BIS also ensures addressing the complaints and grievances of the consumers to ensure protection of their interests. 

Products covered under the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)

Here’s a table encapsulating the Products covered under the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS):

Scheme – I (ISI Mark Scheme)

Method – II (Registration scheme)

· Cement (any variety, whether manufactured or sold in India)

· Electronic Games (Video)

· Household Electrical Goods

· Laptop/Notebook/Tablets

· Batteries

· Plasma/ LCD/LED Televisions of screen size 32″ & above

· Products Related to Food

· optical disc players with integrated amplifiers that have an input power of 200W or more

· Oil Pressure Stoves

· Microwave Ovens

· Automobile Accessories

· Visual Display Units, Video Monitors of screen size 32″ & above

· Cylinder, Valves, and Regulators

· Printers, Plotters

· Medical Equipment

· Scanners

· Steel and Iron Products

· Wireless Keyboards

· Electrical Transformers

· Telephone Answering Machines

· Electrical Motors

· Amplifiers with input power 2000W and above

· Capacitors

· Electronic Musical Systems with input power 200W and above

· Chemicals, Fertilisers, Polymers, and Textiles

· Electronic Clocks with Mains Powers

· Kitchen Appliances

· Set-top box

· Domestic Water Heaters for use with LPG

· Automatic Data Processing Machine

· Air Conditioner and its related Parts, Hermetic Compressor, and Temperature Sensing Controls

· Power Adaptors for IT Equipment

· Plugs and Socket-Outlets and Alternating Current Direct Connected Static Payment Meters for Active Energy

· Power Adaptors for Audio, Video & Similar Electronic Apparatus

· Domestic Gas Stoves for use with LPG

· UPS/Invertors of rating≤5kVA

· Transparent Float Glass

· AC or DC Supplied Electronic Control gear for LED Modules

· Pressure cooker for the home

· Alkaline or other non-acid electrolytes contained in sealed secondary cells or batteries for use in portable applications.

· Cables

· Self-Ballasted LED Lamps for General Lighting Services

· Rubber Hose for LPG

· Fixed General Purpose LED Luminaries

· Aluminum Foil

· Mobile phones

· Non-Electric Toys

· Cash Registers

· Electric Toys

· Point of Sale Terminals

· Flat Transparent Sheet Glass

· Copying Machines/Duplicators

· Safety Glass

· Smart Card

·  Woven Sacks

· Mail Processing Machines/Postage Machines/Franking Machines

· Butterfly Valves

· Passport Reader

· Reflectors for Bicycles

· Power Banks for use in portable applications

· Paper Cattle Feeds

· Recessed LED Luminaries

· Automobile Wheel Rim Component

· LED Luminaires for Road and Street lighting

· Foot Wear

· LED Flood Lights

· Press Tool-Punches

· LED Hand Lamps

· Helmets for riders of Two Wheeler Motor Vehicles

· LED Lighting Chains

· Refrigeration Appliances

· LED Luminaires for Emergency Lighting

· Centrifugal cast (Spun) iron pipes

· UPS/Inverters of rating ≤ 10kVA

· Flux Cored (Tubular) Electrodes

· Plasma/ LCD/LED Television of screen size up to 32″

· Sewing Machine

· Visual Display Units, Video Monitors of screen size up to 32.”

· Water Treatment System

· CCTV Cameras/CCTV Recorders

· Jute Bag

· Adapters for household and similar electrical appliances

 

· USB-powered Iris scanners, optical fingerprint scanners, barcode readers, and barcode scanners

 

· Smart Watches

 

· Modules of Standalone LED for General Lighting

 

· Lighting Chain (Rope Lights)

 

· Induction stove

 

· Keyboard

 

· Automatic Teller Cash dispensing machines

 

· External Hard Drive of the USB Type

 

· Wireless Headphones and Earphones

 

· USB Type External Solid-State Storage Devices (above 256 GB capacity)

 

Less than 200 watts of input power for an electronic musical system

 

• Televisions other than plasma, LCD, or LED TVs; 

 

Switch mode power supplies (SMPS) for standalone use with a maximum output voltage of 48 V

 

· Rice cooker

 

· Wireless microphone

 

· Digital Camera

 

· Video Camera

 

· Webcam (Finished Product)

 

· Smart Speakers (with and without a display)

 

· Dimmers for LED products

 

· Bluetooth speakers


For more information on the BIS certification process, visit our page on BIS Certification.

Understanding the BIS Registration Process is essential for manufacturers looking to comply with Indian standards.

To learn more about the types of products covered, read our guide on Understanding BIS Codes.

If you’re looking for guidance on navigating the online system, check our article on Understanding BIS Portal Login.

Impact of Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) on Indian Industry

The positive influence of BIS regulations on Indian industry is outlined below:

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has played a crucial role in fostering the growth and development of Indian industry by promoting the quality, safety, and durability of products available in the domestic market. Its standards have contributed to increased sales and revenue within Indian trade while encouraging healthy competition among enterprises of all sizes.

BIS standards help eliminate substandard products from the Indian market, thereby safeguarding consumer rights and interests. This not only enhances consumer confidence but also encourages repeat purchases. Furthermore, these standards ensure that products meet both national and international benchmarks.

In addition, BIS standards enable Indian businesses to access new opportunities in global markets by reducing trade barriers and promoting fair competition. Overall, BIS regulations have nurtured a culture of quality, driving sustainable business practices and supporting long-term economic growth.

Conclusion

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) safeguards the quality, safety, and reliability of products in India through the development of standards, certification, and enforcement of compliance. By supporting both manufacturers and consumers, BIS promotes trustworthy products, facilitates market access, encourages industrial growth, and ensures Indian goods meet both national and international quality benchmarks—helping businesses, including those seeking a business loan, to operate with confidence in a compliant and high-quality marketplace.

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Frequently asked questions

What do you mean by BIS?

BIS stands for Bureau of Indian Standards, an organization responsible for setting quality, safety, and efficiency standards for products and services in India. It ensures that goods meet specified criteria to protect consumer interests and promote trade.

What is the BIS standard of quality?

The BIS standard of quality refers to the benchmarks established by the Bureau of Indian Standards to ensure that products meet specific requirements regarding their composition, performance, and safety. These standards help maintain consistency and reliability across various industries.

Is it mandatory to obtain a BIS mark?

For certain products, obtaining a BIS mark is mandatory as per Indian regulations. These products must undergo testing and certification processes to ensure compliance with relevant quality and safety standards set by BIS. The mark indicates adherence to these standards and is essential for market acceptance.

Which ministry is the Bureau of Indian Standards under?

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) operates under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Government of India. Established in 1986, BIS is responsible for setting and promoting standards for products, services, and systems in the country. Its primary aim is to enhance consumer confidence by ensuring the quality and safety of goods available in the market. BIS also plays a crucial role in the development of national standards and helps facilitate trade by promoting standardisation across various sectors.

What is the power of the Bureau of Indian Standards?

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) holds significant authority in establishing and enforcing quality standards for various products and services in India. It develops and publishes Indian Standards to ensure the safety, quality, and efficiency of goods. BIS has the power to conduct inspections, testing, and certification processes to ensure compliance with these standards. Furthermore, it represents India in international standardisation organisations, such as ISO and IEC, thereby influencing global standards and practices. This authority empowers BIS to safeguard consumer interests and promote fair trade.

What is the purpose of a Bureau of Standards?

A bureau of standards serves the critical purpose of developing, implementing, and promoting standards for various products, services, and practices within a country. Its primary aim is to ensure the quality, safety, and efficiency of goods in the market, thereby protecting consumer interests. The bureau facilitates fair trade by establishing uniform standards that industries must adhere to, helping to enhance competition and innovation. Additionally, it plays a role in international standardisation efforts, contributing to global trade by ensuring that domestic products meet internationally recognised criteria.

What is the scope of the Bureau of Indian Standards?

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has a broad scope that encompasses the development of standards for a wide range of products, services, and systems. BIS is responsible for formulating and promoting Indian Standards in various sectors, including electronics, food safety, and construction materials. It also oversees testing, certification, and inspection processes to ensure compliance with these standards. Furthermore, BIS collaborates with other national and international organisations to harmonise standards and enhance the quality of goods and services, thereby contributing to consumer safety and economic development.

What is the difference between the Indian Standard and the Bureau of Indian Standards?

The term "Indian Standard" refers to the specific standards developed and published by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). In contrast, the Bureau of Indian Standards is the national body responsible for the formulation and enforcement of these standards. Indian Standards cover a wide range of products and services, ensuring quality, safety, and performance. BIS, on the other hand, conducts the processes of testing, certification, and inspections to verify compliance with these standards. Essentially, Indian Standards are the guidelines, while BIS is the governing body that oversees their implementation.

What is the difference between BIS and ISI?

BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) is the national standards body of India, while ISI (Indian Standards Institute) was the previous name for BIS. BIS sets standards and certifies products, whereas ISI only certified products.

What is the role of BIS in the food industry?

BIS plays a crucial role in the food industry by setting standards for food products, ensuring their quality, safety, and conformity to regulations. It helps in building consumer trust and promoting trade.

Are BIS and ISO the same?

BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) and ISO (International Organization for Standardization) are not the same. BIS is India's national standards body, while ISO is an international standard-setting body that develops and publishes international standards.

What is the benefit of BIS?

The benefit of BIS is ensuring product quality, safety, and reliability. BIS standards help in improving product performance, reducing costs, meeting regulatory requirements, and enhancing consumer confidence.

Where is BIS required?

BIS certification is required for various products sold in India, including electronics, appliances, automobiles, food products, and building materials. It ensures that these products meet specified quality and safety standards.

What is the conclusion of BIS?

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) plays a pivotal role in ensuring the quality and safety of products and services in India. By developing and implementing rigorous standards, BIS helps protect consumer interests and promotes fair trade practices. It acts as a bridge between producers and consumers, ensuring that products meet established quality benchmarks. Additionally, BIS contributes to national and international standardisation efforts, enhancing India’s participation in global trade. In conclusion, BIS is essential for fostering consumer confidence, driving quality improvements, and supporting economic growth through standardisation.

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