BIS Scheme X License

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), India’s national standards body, has introduced a new conformity assessment scheme – Scheme X as part of its broader framework under the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018. Scheme X is particularly significant under the Omnibus Technical Regulation (OTR), aimed at improving safety, quality, and standardization of machinery and electrical equipment entering the Indian market.

What is BIS Scheme X?

Scheme X is a certification scheme launched by BIS that applies to products notified under the OTR Order, specifically machinery and electrical equipment. It allows for streamlined BIS licensing under the ISI Mark Scheme (Scheme I) while simplifying initial compliance requirements.

Scope of BIS Scheme X

Under the Machinery and Equipment Safety (Omnibus Technical Regulation) Order, 2024, the following are covered:

• Machinery (mechanical and electrical)
• Industrial equipment
• Assemblies and sub-assemblies (components to be notified later)

These products, when listed under the OTR, must conform to Indian Standards (IS) and be certified under Scheme X before being sold in India.

The initial compliance date for Scheme X was 28 August 2025. However, recognizing the scale of industry transition, the Government of India extended the effective date for mandatory certification to 1 September 2026

This extension offers manufacturers and importers more time to prepare and align their products with Indian Standards.

The licensing process under BIS Scheme X includes:

1. Application Submission
   Manufacturers must apply online through the BIS portal with required documents.
2. Testing of Samples
   Product samples are sent to BIS-recognized laboratories for testing.
3. Inspection (as applicable)
   BIS may conduct factory inspections before or after grant of license.
4. Grant of License
   Once all conditions are satisfied, BIS issues a license to use the ISI Mark.

• Manufacturing details and process flow
• Product drawings/specifications
• Factory testing and quality control procedures
• Third-party lab test reports (if available)
• Proof of Indian agent (for foreign manufacturers)

• Faster market access for new products
• Reduced compliance burden for small or seasonal manufacturers
• Improved product quality and safety
• Better consumer trust and brand image
• Easier participation in government tenders and supply contracts

• The Scheme X license is not a permanent approval—it’s a streamlined path to ISI Mark licensing under Scheme I.
• Components and parts used in the manufacturing of machinery will be covered in a separate notification in the future.
• Foreign manufacturers must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) for BIS coordination.

BIS Scheme X (BIS OTR) is a progressive step in ensuring quality and safety compliance in India’s rapidly growing industrial machinery and equipment sectors. With the implementation date now extended to 1 September 2026, this is the right time for manufacturers to initiate their certification journey.