BIS Certification Mandatory for Selling Products on Flipkart and Amazon

BIS Certification Mandatory for Selling Products on Flipkart and Amazon. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) serves as India's national standards body, playing a pivotal role in formulating and enforcing standards to ensure product quality, safety, and reliability. BIS certification signifies that a product complies with specific Indian Standards (IS), making it safe for consumer use. This certification is particularly important for products that impact health, safety, and the environment.
What is BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards)?
?The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) serves as India's national standards body, established under the BIS Act of 1986 and revised in 2016. Its primary mandate is to ensure the quality, safety, and reliability of products and services available to consumers. BIS achieves this through the development of Indian Standards (IS) for a wide array of products, services, and systems. This process involves extensive consultations with stakeholders, including industry experts, consumer organizations, and government bodies, to develop standards that reflect current technological advancements and consumer needs. These standards aim to ensure consistency, safety, and quality across various sectors.?
Beyond standardization, BIS provides third-party assurance of product quality through certification schemes. Manufacturers can obtain licenses to use the BIS Standard Mark (commonly known as the ISI mark), signifying that their products meet established quality and safety benchmarks. To support this, BIS operates a network of laboratories equipped to test products against specified standards, ensuring they meet the necessary quality and safety requirements. Additionally, BIS is committed to safeguarding consumer interests through mechanisms for addressing grievances and ensuring compliance with standards. It conducts market surveillance, product recalls, and enforcement actions against non-compliant products, while also engaging in consumer awareness programs to educate the public about the importance of quality standards.
Why is BIS Certification Mandatory?
In 2025, sellers must obtain Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification for specific product categories. This decision is rooted in several critical factors:?

Legal Compliance: Adhering to National Regulations: The Indian government, through the BIS Act, 2016, has made it mandatory for certain products to have BIS certification before being sold. Selling non-certified products is illegal and can lead to severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment. In recent actions, the Bureau of Indian Standards conducted raids on Flipkart warehouses, seizing non-certified items such as stainless steel bottles, toys, and speakers. These actions underscore the legal imperative for platforms like Flipkart to ensure that all listed products comply with national standards.?

Ensuring Consumer Safety: Protecting End-Users: Consumer safety is paramount. Products lacking BIS certification may not meet established safety standards, posing risks to users. For instance, uncertified electrical appliances can be fire hazards, and non-compliant toys might contain harmful substances. By enforcing BIS certification, Flipkart aims to ensure that all products sold on its platform are safe for consumers, thereby reinforcing its reputation as a trustworthy marketplace.?

Enhancing Seller Credibility: Building Trust with Consumers: In a competitive e-commerce landscape, trust is a crucial factor influencing purchasing decisions. Sellers offering BIS-certified products signal a commitment to quality and compliance, enhancing their credibility among consumers. This trust can lead to increased customer loyalty and higher sales volumes.

Upholding Brand Reputation: Maintaining Platform Integrity: For Flipkart, ensuring that all products meet BIS standards is not just about legal compliance or consumer safety; it's also about maintaining the platform's integrity and brand reputation. Allowing the sale of non-certified products could erode consumer trust and damage the platform's image. By enforcing BIS certification, Flipkart demonstrates its commitment to quality and safety, reinforcing its position as a reliable and responsible e-commerce platform.

?Product Categories Required BIS Certification
In 2025, Flipkart mandates BIS certification for specific product categories to ensure compliance with Indian safety and quality standards. This requirement aligns with the Quality Control Orders (QCOs) issued by the Indian government. Below are the key product categories requiring BIS certification:?

Electronics and Appliances: Products such as mobile phones, televisions, refrigerators, and laptops fall under this category. These items must comply with the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) as per the Electronics and Information Technology Goods (Requirements for Compulsory Registration) Order, 2012. This ensures that electronic goods meet safety and performance standards before being sold in the Indian market. ?

Toys and Children's Products: All toys intended for children under 14 years of age, whether electric or non-electric, require BIS certification. Non-electric toys must conform to IS 9873 (Part 1):2019, while electric toys must meet IS 15644:2006 standards. This certification ensures that toys are safe for children, free from hazardous materials, and meet mechanical and physical safety requirements. ?

Food and Beverages: Certain packaged food products, including bottled water, milk powder, and infant food, are mandated to have BIS certification. This ensures that food items meet the safety, hygiene, and quality standards set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and BIS, safeguarding consumer health. ?

Electrical and Battery-Operated Products: Items like chargers, power banks, LED lights, and other battery-operated devices require BIS certification. These products must adhere to specific Indian Standards to ensure electrical safety, prevent hazards like short circuits or fires, and guarantee performance reliability.

Steps to Obtain BIS Certification
Obtaining BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) certification is essential for manufacturers and importers aiming to sell products in India, especially on platforms like Flipkart. This certification ensures that products meet Indian safety, quality, and performance standards. The process involves several structured steps:?
Step 1: Identify Applicable Indian Standards (IS)
Begin by determining the specific Indian Standard (IS) applicable to your product. The BIS website provides a comprehensive list of standards categorized by product types. Accurate identification ensures that your product undergoes the correct certification process.?
Step 2: Select the Appropriate Certification Scheme
BIS offers various certification schemes based on product categories:?

ISI Mark Scheme (Scheme-I): Applicable to products like cement, household appliances, and food items.?

Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS): For electronics and IT products such as mobile phones and LED lights.?

Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS): Designed for overseas manufacturers aiming to sell products in India.?

Choosing the correct scheme is crucial for compliance and successful certification.?
Step 3: Prepare and Submit the Application
Register on the BIS online portal and complete the application form, providing necessary details such as:?

Product specifications and technical details.?

Manufacturing process flowcharts?.

Quality control measures in place?.

Test reports from BIS-recognized laboratories?.

Ensure all information is accurate to avoid delays in the certification process.?
Step 4: Product Testing and Factory Inspection
BIS may require your product to undergo testing in a BIS-approved laboratory to verify compliance with relevant standards. Additionally, a BIS officer might inspect your manufacturing facility to assess quality control systems and production processes. This step ensures that the product consistently meets the required standards.?
Step 5: Grant of Certification
Upon successful evaluation of test results and inspection reports, BIS will issue the certification. This license permits the use of the BIS Standard Mark (ISI Mark) on your product, signifying conformity to Indian standards. The certification is typically valid for two years and can be renewed thereafter.?
Step 6: Post-Certification Compliance
Maintain compliance by ensuring continuous adherence to the standards. BIS may conduct periodic surveillance audits and product testing to verify ongoing conformity. Non-compliance can lead to suspension or cancellation of the certification.?
Benefits of BIS Certification for sellers

Legal Compliance: BIS certification ensures that your products meet the mandatory quality and safety standards set by the Indian government. Selling non-certified products can lead to legal consequences, including fines and product recalls. By obtaining BIS certification, sellers demonstrate adherence to national regulations, thereby avoiding potential legal issues.?

Market Access: Certified products are eligible for sale not only on Flipkart but also across various e-commerce platforms and physical retail outlets in India. Many distributors and retailers prefer or require BIS-certified products, making certification a gateway to broader market opportunities. This compliance is especially crucial for imported goods, as it facilitates smoother entry into the Indian market.?

Consumer Trust: The BIS mark on a product serves as a symbol of quality and safety, instilling confidence in consumers. In a market where consumers are increasingly aware of product standards, BIS certification can influence purchasing decisions, leading to higher customer satisfaction and loyalty.?

Competitive Advantage: In a competitive marketplace, BIS certification can differentiate your products from those of competitors. Certified products are often perceived as more reliable and of higher quality, which can lead to increased sales and market share. Additionally, some platforms may prioritize certified products in search results, enhancing visibility.?

Brand Reputation: Consistently offering BIS-certified products reinforces a brand's commitment to quality and safety. This commitment can enhance brand reputation, fostering trust among consumers and business partners alike. A strong reputation can lead to long-term customer relationships and positive word-of-mouth referrals.?

Risk Mitigation: Adhering to BIS standards reduces the risk of product failures, safety incidents, and subsequent recalls. This proactive approach to quality control minimizes potential liabilities and protects the business from financial and reputational damage.

What happens if you don’t have a BIS Certification?

Listing Suspension and Platform Penalties: E-commerce platforms like Flipkart are obligated to ensure that all products listed comply with Indian regulations, including BIS certification requirements. If a seller lists products that lack the necessary certification, the platform may take actions such as removing or suspending the product listings, restricting or suspending the seller's account, withholding payments until compliance is verified, and imposing penalties for repeated violations. These actions can disrupt business operations and lead to financial losses.?

Legal Penalties Under the BIS Act, 2016: The BIS Act, 2016, mandates that certain products must obtain BIS certification before being sold in India. Non-compliance with this requirement can result in monetary fines ranging from ?2 lakh to up to 10 times the value of the goods sold or offered for sale. In cases of serious violations, offenders may face imprisonment for up to two years. These legal consequences can have significant financial and operational impacts on a business.?

Product Seizure and Business Disruption: The Bureau of Indian Standards actively monitors the market to ensure compliance with certification requirements. In recent operations, BIS has seized thousands of products lacking the necessary BIS certification from warehouses of major e-commerce platforms. The seizure of products can halt sales, lead to inventory shortages, and damage relationships with customers and suppliers. Such disruptions can have long-term negative effects on a business's reputation and financial stability.?

Reputational Damage: Selling non-certified products can severely damage a brand's reputation. Consumers may lose confidence in a brand that offers uncertified products, associating it with poor quality and safety concerns. News of product seizures and legal actions can lead to negative media coverage, further tarnishing the brand's image. A damaged reputation can lead to decreased sales and difficulty attracting new customers. Maintaining a strong reputation is crucial for long-term business success, and non-compliance can undermine this.?

Market Access Restrictions: Non-compliant products may be barred from entering or being sold in the Indian market. Products without BIS certification cannot be legally sold, resulting in lost revenue. Regulatory authorities may impose stricter controls on future product listings, complicating market entry. Non-compliance can hinder efforts to expand product lines or enter new markets within India. Ensuring compliance with BIS certification requirements is essential for maintaining access to the Indian market and supporting business growth.

Conclusion
BIS certification is more than a regulatory requirement; it's a strategic asset for sellers on Flipkart. It ensures product quality, enhances brand reputation, and opens doors to broader market opportunities. As consumer awareness grows, adherence to BIS standards will be crucial for success in India's e-commerce landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is BIS certification and why is it important for selling products in India, especially on platforms like Flipkart and Amazon?
Ans. BIS certification, provided by the Bureau of Indian Standards, is India's national standard mark. It signifies that a product complies with specific Indian Standards related to quality, safety, and reliability, making it safer for consumer use and ensuring quality. For sellers on platforms like Flipkart and Amazon, BIS certification is becoming increasingly mandatory for certain product categories. This is driven by legal compliance under the BIS Act, 2016, which makes selling non-certified mandatory products illegal and can lead to penalties, fines, and even imprisonment. Marketplaces like Flipkart are actively ensuring that listed products comply with national standards.
Q2. How does a manufacturer obtain BIS certification for their products to be sold on these e-commerce platforms?
Ans. To obtain BIS certification, manufacturers need to apply to the Bureau of Indian Standards. BIS provides third-party assurance of product quality through various certification schemes. Manufacturers can obtain licenses to use the BIS Standard Mark (ISI mark) on their products once they meet the established quality and safety benchmarks. BIS also operates a network of laboratories equipped to test products against specified standards and requirements. This process ensures that certified products have undergone rigorous testing and meet the necessary quality and safety standards.
Q3. Which types of products typically require mandatory BIS certification for online sale in India, as indicated by the text?
Ans. While the text mentions that in 2025, sellers must obtain BIS certification for specific product categories, it also provides recent examples of enforcement actions by the Bureau of Indian Standards on Flipkart warehouses. These actions involved seizing non-certified items such as stainless steel bottles, toys, and speakers. This suggests that these types of products, and potentially others impacting health, safety, and the environment, are likely candidates for mandatory BIS certification for online sale.
Q4. What are the potential consequences for sellers on Flipkart and Amazon who sell products without the mandatory BIS certification?
Ans. Selling products that require mandatory BIS certification without it is illegal under the BIS Act, 2016. Consequences for non-compliance can be severe, including penalties, fines, and even imprisonment. Additionally, e-commerce platforms like Flipkart are taking action to ensure compliance, as seen in the BIS raids on their warehouses. This means sellers listing non-certified mandatory products risk having their products removed, facing legal action, and potentially being barred from selling on these platforms.
Q5. Where can manufacturers and sellers get more information about which products require BIS certification and the certification process for selling online in India?
Ans. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the primary source for information regarding mandatory product certifications and the application process. Manufacturers and sellers should consult the official website of the BIS to identify the specific product categories that require certification and to understand the detailed procedures for obtaining a BIS license and using the BIS Standard Mark (ISI mark). They can also likely find resources and guidelines provided by Flipkart and Amazon regarding compliance with Indian quality and safety standards.

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) serves as India's national standards body, playing a pivotal role in formulating and enforcing standards to ensure product quality, safety, and reliability. BIS certification signifies that a product complies with specific Indian Standards (IS), making it safe for consumer use. This certification is particularly important for products that impact health, safety, and the environment.

What is BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards)?

?The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) serves as India's national standards body, established under the BIS Act of 1986 and revised in 2016. Its primary mandate is to ensure the quality, safety, and reliability of products and services available to consumers. BIS achieves this through the development of Indian Standards (IS) for a wide array of products, services, and systems. This process involves extensive consultations with stakeholders, including industry experts, consumer organizations, and government bodies, to develop standards that reflect current technological advancements and consumer needs. These standards aim to ensure consistency, safety, and quality across various sectors.?

Beyond standardization, BIS provides third-party assurance of product quality through certification schemes. Manufacturers can obtain licenses to use the BIS Standard Mark (commonly known as the ISI mark), signifying that their products meet established quality and safety benchmarks. To support this, BIS operates a network of laboratories equipped to test products against specified standards, ensuring they meet the necessary quality and safety requirements. Additionally, BIS is committed to safeguarding consumer interests through mechanisms for addressing grievances and ensuring compliance with standards. It conducts market surveillance, product recalls, and enforcement actions against non-compliant products, while also engaging in consumer awareness programs to educate the public about the importance of quality standards.

Why is BIS Certification Mandatory?

In 2025, sellers must obtain Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification for specific product categories. This decision is rooted in several critical factors:?

Legal Compliance: Adhering to National Regulations: The Indian government, through the BIS Act, 2016, has made it mandatory for certain products to have BIS certification before being sold. Selling non-certified products is illegal and can lead to severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment. In recent actions, the Bureau of Indian Standards conducted raids on Flipkart warehouses, seizing non-certified items such as stainless steel bottles, toys, and speakers. These actions underscore the legal imperative for platforms like Flipkart to ensure that all listed products comply with national standards.?
Ensuring Consumer Safety: Protecting End-Users: Consumer safety is paramount. Products lacking BIS certification may not meet established safety standards, posing risks to users. For instance, uncertified electrical appliances can be fire hazards, and non-compliant toys might contain harmful substances. By enforcing BIS certification, Flipkart aims to ensure that all products sold on its platform are safe for consumers, thereby reinforcing its reputation as a trustworthy marketplace.?
Enhancing Seller Credibility: Building Trust with Consumers: In a competitive e-commerce landscape, trust is a crucial factor influencing purchasing decisions. Sellers offering BIS-certified products signal a commitment to quality and compliance, enhancing their credibility among consumers. This trust can lead to increased customer loyalty and higher sales volumes.
Upholding Brand Reputation: Maintaining Platform Integrity: For Flipkart, ensuring that all products meet BIS standards is not just about legal compliance or consumer safety; it's also about maintaining the platform's integrity and brand reputation. Allowing the sale of non-certified products could erode consumer trust and damage the platform's image. By enforcing BIS certification, Flipkart demonstrates its commitment to quality and safety, reinforcing its position as a reliable and responsible e-commerce platform.

?Product Categories Required BIS Certification

In 2025, Flipkart mandates BIS certification for specific product categories to ensure compliance with Indian safety and quality standards. This requirement aligns with the Quality Control Orders (QCOs) issued by the Indian government. Below are the key product categories requiring BIS certification:?

Electronics and Appliances: Products such as mobile phones, televisions, refrigerators, and laptops fall under this category. These items must comply with the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) as per the Electronics and Information Technology Goods (Requirements for Compulsory Registration) Order, 2012. This ensures that electronic goods meet safety and performance standards before being sold in the Indian market. ?
Toys and Children's Products: All toys intended for children under 14 years of age, whether electric or non-electric, require BIS certification. Non-electric toys must conform to IS 9873 (Part 1):2019, while electric toys must meet IS 15644:2006 standards. This certification ensures that toys are safe for children, free from hazardous materials, and meet mechanical and physical safety requirements. ?
Food and Beverages: Certain packaged food products, including bottled water, milk powder, and infant food, are mandated to have BIS certification. This ensures that food items meet the safety, hygiene, and quality standards set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and BIS, safeguarding consumer health. ?
Electrical and Battery-Operated Products: Items like chargers, power banks, LED lights, and other battery-operated devices require BIS certification. These products must adhere to specific Indian Standards to ensure electrical safety, prevent hazards like short circuits or fires, and guarantee performance reliability.

Steps to Obtain BIS Certification

Obtaining BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) certification is essential for manufacturers and importers aiming to sell products in India, especially on platforms like Flipkart. This certification ensures that products meet Indian safety, quality, and performance standards. The process involves several structured steps:?

Step 1: Identify Applicable Indian Standards (IS)

Begin by determining the specific Indian Standard (IS) applicable to your product. The BIS website provides a comprehensive list of standards categorized by product types. Accurate identification ensures that your product undergoes the correct certification process.?

Step 2: Select the Appropriate Certification Scheme

BIS offers various certification schemes based on product categories:?

ISI Mark Scheme (Scheme-I): Applicable to products like cement, household appliances, and food items.?
Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS): For electronics and IT products such as mobile phones and LED lights.?
Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS): Designed for overseas manufacturers aiming to sell products in India.?

Choosing the correct scheme is crucial for compliance and successful certification.?

Step 3: Prepare and Submit the Application

Product specifications and technical details.?
Manufacturing process flowcharts?.
Quality control measures in place?.
Test reports from BIS-recognized laboratories?.

Ensure all information is accurate to avoid delays in the certification process.?

Step 4: Product Testing and Factory Inspection

BIS may require your product to undergo testing in a BIS-approved laboratory to verify compliance with relevant standards. Additionally, a BIS officer might inspect your manufacturing facility to assess quality control systems and production processes. This step ensures that the product consistently meets the required standards.?

Step 5: Grant of Certification

Upon successful evaluation of test results and inspection reports, BIS will issue the certification. This license permits the use of the BIS Standard Mark (ISI Mark) on your product, signifying conformity to Indian standards. The certification is typically valid for two years and can be renewed thereafter.?

Step 6: Post-Certification Compliance

Maintain compliance by ensuring continuous adherence to the standards. BIS may conduct periodic surveillance audits and product testing to verify ongoing conformity. Non-compliance can lead to suspension or cancellation of the certification.?

Benefits of BIS Certification for sellers

Legal Compliance: BIS certification ensures that your products meet the mandatory quality and safety standards set by the Indian government. Selling non-certified products can lead to legal consequences, including fines and product recalls. By obtaining BIS certification, sellers demonstrate adherence to national regulations, thereby avoiding potential legal issues.?
Market Access: Certified products are eligible for sale not only on Flipkart but also across various e-commerce platforms and physical retail outlets in India. Many distributors and retailers prefer or require BIS-certified products, making certification a gateway to broader market opportunities. This compliance is especially crucial for imported goods, as it facilitates smoother entry into the Indian market.?
Consumer Trust: The BIS mark on a product serves as a symbol of quality and safety, instilling confidence in consumers. In a market where consumers are increasingly aware of product standards, BIS certification can influence purchasing decisions, leading to higher customer satisfaction and loyalty.?
Competitive Advantage: In a competitive marketplace, BIS certification can differentiate your products from those of competitors. Certified products are often perceived as more reliable and of higher quality, which can lead to increased sales and market share. Additionally, some platforms may prioritize certified products in search results, enhancing visibility.?
Brand Reputation: Consistently offering BIS-certified products reinforces a brand's commitment to quality and safety. This commitment can enhance brand reputation, fostering trust among consumers and business partners alike. A strong reputation can lead to long-term customer relationships and positive word-of-mouth referrals.?
Risk Mitigation: Adhering to BIS standards reduces the risk of product failures, safety incidents, and subsequent recalls. This proactive approach to quality control minimizes potential liabilities and protects the business from financial and reputational damage.

What happens if you don’t have a BIS Certification?

Listing Suspension and Platform Penalties: E-commerce platforms like Flipkart are obligated to ensure that all products listed comply with Indian regulations, including BIS certification requirements. If a seller lists products that lack the necessary certification, the platform may take actions such as removing or suspending the product listings, restricting or suspending the seller's account, withholding payments until compliance is verified, and imposing penalties for repeated violations. These actions can disrupt business operations and lead to financial losses.?
Legal Penalties Under the BIS Act, 2016: The BIS Act, 2016, mandates that certain products must obtain BIS certification before being sold in India. Non-compliance with this requirement can result in monetary fines ranging from ?2 lakh to up to 10 times the value of the goods sold or offered for sale. In cases of serious violations, offenders may face imprisonment for up to two years. These legal consequences can have significant financial and operational impacts on a business.?
Product Seizure and Business Disruption: The Bureau of Indian Standards actively monitors the market to ensure compliance with certification requirements. In recent operations, BIS has seized thousands of products lacking the necessary BIS certification from warehouses of major e-commerce platforms. The seizure of products can halt sales, lead to inventory shortages, and damage relationships with customers and suppliers. Such disruptions can have long-term negative effects on a business's reputation and financial stability.?
Reputational Damage: Selling non-certified products can severely damage a brand's reputation. Consumers may lose confidence in a brand that offers uncertified products, associating it with poor quality and safety concerns. News of product seizures and legal actions can lead to negative media coverage, further tarnishing the brand's image. A damaged reputation can lead to decreased sales and difficulty attracting new customers. Maintaining a strong reputation is crucial for long-term business success, and non-compliance can undermine this.?
Market Access Restrictions: Non-compliant products may be barred from entering or being sold in the Indian market. Products without BIS certification cannot be legally sold, resulting in lost revenue. Regulatory authorities may impose stricter controls on future product listings, complicating market entry. Non-compliance can hinder efforts to expand product lines or enter new markets within India. Ensuring compliance with BIS certification requirements is essential for maintaining access to the Indian market and supporting business growth.

Conclusion

BIS certification is more than a regulatory requirement; it's a strategic asset for sellers on Flipkart. It ensures product quality, enhances brand reputation, and opens doors to broader market opportunities. As consumer awareness grows, adherence to BIS standards will be crucial for success in India's e-commerce landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is BIS certification and why is it important for selling products in India, especially on platforms like Flipkart and Amazon?

Ans. BIS certification, provided by the Bureau of Indian Standards, is India's national standard mark. It signifies that a product complies with specific Indian Standards related to quality, safety, and reliability, making it safer for consumer use and ensuring quality. For sellers on platforms like Flipkart and Amazon, BIS certification is becoming increasingly mandatory for certain product categories. This is driven by legal compliance under the BIS Act, 2016, which makes selling non-certified mandatory products illegal and can lead to penalties, fines, and even imprisonment. Marketplaces like Flipkart are actively ensuring that listed products comply with national standards.

Q2. How does a manufacturer obtain BIS certification for their products to be sold on these e-commerce platforms?

Ans. To obtain BIS certification, manufacturers need to apply to the Bureau of Indian Standards. BIS provides third-party assurance of product quality through various certification schemes. Manufacturers can obtain licenses to use the BIS Standard Mark (ISI mark) on their products once they meet the established quality and safety benchmarks. BIS also operates a network of laboratories equipped to test products against specified standards and requirements. This process ensures that certified products have undergone rigorous testing and meet the necessary quality and safety standards.

Q3. Which types of products typically require mandatory BIS certification for online sale in India, as indicated by the text?

Ans. While the text mentions that in 2025, sellers must obtain BIS certification for specific product categories, it also provides recent examples of enforcement actions by the Bureau of Indian Standards on Flipkart warehouses. These actions involved seizing non-certified items such as stainless steel bottles, toys, and speakers. This suggests that these types of products, and potentially others impacting health, safety, and the environment, are likely candidates for mandatory BIS certification for online sale.

Q4. What are the potential consequences for sellers on Flipkart and Amazon who sell products without the mandatory BIS certification?

Ans. Selling products that require mandatory BIS certification without it is illegal under the BIS Act, 2016. Consequences for non-compliance can be severe, including penalties, fines, and even imprisonment. Additionally, e-commerce platforms like Flipkart are taking action to ensure compliance, as seen in the BIS raids on their warehouses. This means sellers listing non-certified mandatory products risk having their products removed, facing legal action, and potentially being barred from selling on these platforms.

Q5. Where can manufacturers and sellers get more information about which products require BIS certification and the certification process for selling online in India?

Ans. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the primary source for information regarding mandatory product certifications and the application process. Manufacturers and sellers should consult the official website of the BIS to identify the specific product categories that require certification and to understand the detailed procedures for obtaining a BIS license and using the BIS Standard Mark (ISI mark). They can also likely find resources and guidelines provided by Flipkart and Amazon regarding compliance with Indian quality and safety standards.