When buying goods in India, you might have come across labels like ISI Mark on electrical appliances or Agmark on food items. These marks indicate that the product has passed quality, safety, and regulatory checks. Both ISI and Agmark certifications ensure that products meet national standards, but they apply to different product categories.

While ISI Mark is given to industrial and consumer goods, Agmark is exclusively for agricultural and food products. The differences between these two certifications help consumers make informed purchasing decisions and businesses comply with legal requirements.

What is ISI Mark?

The ISI Mark is a certification issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to ensure that industrial and consumer products meet Indian Standard (IS) specifications. It is a quality mark for products related to safety, durability, and efficiency.

ISI Mark Full Form

ISI stands for Indian Standards Institute, the former name of Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).

Products Covered Under ISI Mark

The ISI certification is mandatory for many essential products, including:

• Electrical appliances (fans, switches, refrigerators, air conditioners)

• LPG cylinders and gas stoves

• Automobile tires, batteries, and helmets

• Cement, steel, and building materials

• Packaged drinking water and mineral water

Why is ISI Certification Important?

• Ensures product safety and reliability

• Prevents substandard and hazardous goods

• Mandatory for products like helmets, electrical goods, and LPG cylinders

• Builds consumer trust and market credibility

For example, if you purchase an electrical appliance without an ISI Mark, there is a higher risk of faulty wiring, overheating, and safety hazards.

What is Agmark Certification?

The Agmark Certification is issued by the Directorate of Marketing and Inspection (DMI), under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare. It ensures that agricultural and food products meet quality, purity, and safety standards.

Agmark Full Form

Agmark stands for Agricultural Marketing, which certifies food products for purity and authenticity.

Products Covered Under Agmark

The Agmark certification is essential for:

• Edible oils (mustard oil, coconut oil, groundnut oil)

• Spices (turmeric, cumin, black pepper)

• Honey and dairy products

• Cereals, pulses, and wheat flour

• Fruits and vegetables

Why is Agmark Certification Important?

• Ensures quality and purity of food products

• Prevents food adulteration and contamination

• Helps consumers identify authentic agricultural goods

• Promotes standardized agricultural marketing in India

For example, mustard oil with Agmark certification guarantees that the product is free from harmful additives and adulterants.

Key Differences Between ISI Mark and Agmark Certification

Both ISI Mark and Agmark Certification ensure consumer protection, but their focus and scope differ based on product categories.

How to Obtain ISI and Agmark Certification?

ISI Mark Registration Process

Manufacturers must obtain ISI certification before selling regulated products.

Step 1: Apply for certification on the BIS portal (www.bis.gov.in)

Step 2: Submit product samples for testing at BIS-approved labs

Step 3: BIS officials conduct an inspection of the manufacturing unit

Step 4: If the product meets BIS standards, the ISI Mark license is issued

Processing Time: 30-60 days

Validity: 1-2 years (Renewable)

Agmark Certification Process

Businesses dealing in agricultural products need Agmark certification to ensure quality.

Step 1: Apply for certification to the Directorate of Marketing & Inspection (DMI)

Step 2: Submit food samples for quality testing at Agmark-approved laboratories

Step 3: Inspection of processing and packaging units

Step 4: If approved, the Agmark certificate is granted

Processing Time: 15-30 days

Validity: 3-5 years (Renewable)

Benefits of ISI and Agmark Certification for Businesses

For ISI Certification Holders:

• Increased consumer trust and sales

• Compliance with mandatory safety standards

• Eligibility for government tenders and bulk orders

For Agmark Certification Holders:

• Better market value and export opportunities

• Protection against food adulteration complaints

• Compliance with Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)

For exporters, obtaining AD Code Registration is also crucial for international trade compliance.

Why Should Consumers Look for ISI & Agmark Labels?

• ISI Mark ensures electrical and mechanical products are safe to use

• Agmark guarantees food products are free from adulteration and contamination

• Both certifications prevent fraudulent and substandard products from entering the market

Before purchasing any product, consumers should check for ISI and Agmark labels to ensure they are buying certified and high-quality goods.

Conclusion

Both ISI Mark and Agmark Certification play a significant role in ensuring quality control and consumer safety. While the ISI Mark applies to industrial and consumer goods, the Agmark Certification is specifically for agricultural and food products.

For businesses, obtaining these certifications enhances brand reputation, legal compliance, and market acceptance. Consumers should always look for ISI and Agmark labels while buying products to ensure they are getting authentic, safe, and high-quality goods.

FAQs

Q1. Is ISI certification mandatory for all products?

Ans. No, ISI certification is mandatory for specific products like electrical goods, LPG cylinders, and helmets, while for others, it is voluntary.

Q2. Can imported products have an ISI Mark or Agmark?

Ans. No, ISI and Agmark certifications are only applicable to products manufactured and tested in India.

Q3. What happens if a product is sold without ISI or Agmark certification?

Ans. Selling mandatory ISI-mark or Agmark-certified products without certification is illegal and may lead to penalties, fines, and product bans.

Q4. Can small businesses and startups apply for ISI and Agmark certification?

Ans. Yes, small businesses and startups can apply for both ISI and Agmark certification if they meet the required quality and safety standards. Government schemes and incentives are available to support businesses in obtaining these certifications.

Q5. What is the cost of obtaining ISI and Agmark certification?

Ans. The cost of certification varies based on the type of product, testing fees, and inspection charges. Generally, ISI certification costs between Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 50,000, while Agmark certification costs range between Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 30,000.

Q6. How can consumers check if a product has a valid ISI or Agmark certification?

Ans. Consumers can check for ISI and Agmark logos on product packaging. Additionally, they can verify authenticity by visiting the BIS (for ISI) or DMI (for Agmark) official websites, where certified product lists are available.

Q7. Can businesses export ISI or Agmark-certified products?

Ans. Yes, ISI and Agmark-certified products can be exported. However, businesses must also comply with AD Code Registration, Import-Export Code (IEC) registration, and international quality standards.