New BIS Norms for Electrical Appliances Effective March 2026

In a major regulatory move aimed at enhancing consumer safety, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has issued the Safety of Household, Commercial and Similar Electrical Appliances (Quality Control) Order, 2025. This new order replaces the previous 2024 directive and makes it mandatory for a broad category of electrical appliances to conform to Indian Standards under BIS certification, starting 19th March 2026.

🟢 Key Highlights:

  • Mandatory BIS Certification: All appliances used for household, commercial, or similar purposes with rated voltage up to 250V (single-phase) and 480V (others) must bear the Standard Mark.

  • Effective Date: General enforcement begins March 19, 2026. Small enterprises have time till June 19, 2026, and micro enterprises till September 19, 2026.

  • Exemptions:
    • Appliances already covered under other BIS quality orders.
    • Domestically manufactured goods for export.
    • Up to 200 imported units per year strictly for R&D, not for commercial use.
    • Existing certified stock or stock under application can be sold up to six months post implementation.

📋 Implementation Timeline

CategoryEffective Date
General (All manufacturers)19 March 2026
Small Enterprises19 June 2026
Micro Enterprises19 September 2026

⚙️ Applicable Appliances Under the Order

This order covers a wide range of 90+ appliances, including but not limited to:

  • Vacuum Cleaners, Dishwashers, and Spin Extractors

  • Cooking Ranges, Hobs, Ovens, and Deep Fat Fryers

  • Electric Shavers, Hair Clippers, and Massage Tools

  • Electric Coffee Makers, Food Processors, and Juicers

  • Electric Heating Tools, Water Boilers, and Hot Plates

  • Commercial Dishwashers, Grills, and Steamers

  • DC-supplied and Battery-operated devices such as Vacuum Cleaners, Oral Hygiene Products, and Air Purifiers

The complete list spans categories from kitchen equipment and personal grooming tools to commercial-grade electrical machines and even furniture with motorized parts.

📜 Legal Authority and Penalties

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) will serve as both the certifying and enforcement authority under this order. Non-compliance will attract penalties as per the BIS Act, 2016.

🧾 Note

All references to Indian Standards in the order imply the latest versions, including any amendments notified by BIS.

For businesses and manufacturers, it’s time to align product design and production with BIS norms to avoid disruption post-March 2026. For consumers, this move promises safer and more reliable appliances in the market.

RECENT UPDATES