In India, product quality and safety are regulated by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). While people often use the terms ISI mark and BIS mark interchangeably, they are not the same. Understanding the difference between these two marks is important for manufacturers, importers, sellers, and even consumers to ensure proper compliance and product authenticity.
This article explains the key differences between the ISI mark and the BIS mark in simple and practical terms.
1. Meaning and Origin
ISI Mark
The ISI mark originated from the Indian Standards Institution (ISI), which was the earlier standards body in India. Even though ISI was later replaced by BIS, the ISI mark continues to exist for specific products.
In simple words, the ISI mark represents conformity to Indian Standards for certain regulated products.
BIS Mark
The BIS mark is the broader certification mark issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards, which was established under the BIS Act, 1986 and later updated under the BIS Act, 2016.
The BIS mark represents overall certification and regulatory approval under different BIS schemes.
2. Scope of Application
ISI Mark – Limited Product Categories
The ISI mark is mainly used for:
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Cement
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Electrical appliances
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Steel products
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Household items
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Industrial and construction materials
These are products that fall under mandatory Indian Standards and Quality Control Orders (QCOs).
BIS Mark – Multiple Certification Schemes
The BIS mark applies to:
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Electronics and IT products (CRS Scheme)
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Hallmarked jewellery
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Imported goods
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Industrial products
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Consumer goods
The BIS mark acts as an umbrella term covering multiple certification systems.
3. Certification Schemes Involved
ISI Mark
Issued under the BIS Product Certification Scheme (Scheme-I).
This scheme involves:
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Factory inspection
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Product testing
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Ongoing surveillance
The ISI mark is typically mandatory for notified products.
BIS Mark
The BIS mark may be issued under:
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Product Certification Scheme (ISI)
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Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS)
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Hallmarking Scheme
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Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS)
So, ISI is a type of BIS certification, but not all BIS certifications use the ISI mark.
4. Product Marking Format
ISI Mark Format
The ISI mark usually includes:
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ISI logo
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Indian Standard number (IS code)
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BIS license number (CM/L-xxxxxx)
Example:
ISI | IS 302 | CM/L-xxxxxx
BIS Mark Format
The BIS mark varies by scheme:
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CRS products show BIS logo + Registration Number (R-xxxxxx)
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Hallmarking shows BIS hallmark symbols
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FMCS products show BIS certification details
This makes BIS marking more scheme-specific.
5. Mandatory vs Voluntary Nature
ISI Mark
Mostly mandatory for products notified under QCOs.
Selling without ISI marking for such products can lead to:
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Penalties
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Product seizure
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Market bans
BIS Mark
Can be:
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Mandatory (CRS, QCO products)
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Voluntary (for quality assurance and brand trust)
It depends on the product category and applicable regulation.
6. Legal Authority
Both marks are legally enforced under:
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BIS Act, 2016
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Relevant Quality Control Orders
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Consumer protection and safety regulations
However, ISI specifically reflects compliance with Indian Standards, while BIS represents the regulatory authority and certification framework.
7. Consumer and Business Importance
For consumers:
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ISI mark assures product safety and standard quality
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BIS mark assures regulatory approval and authenticity
For businesses:
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ISI mark is often compulsory for market entry
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BIS mark enables wider product compliance, including imports and electronics
Conclusion
The key difference between the ISI mark and the BIS mark lies in their scope and application. The ISI mark is a specific certification symbol for certain mandatory products, while the BIS mark is a broader regulatory identity covering multiple certification schemes. In short, ISI is a part of BIS, but BIS is much more than just ISI. Understanding this distinction helps businesses remain compliant and helps consumers choose safe, certified products.