21^st NOVEMBER 2023

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry, through the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, has issued a directive to enhance the quality of specific steel products. The government is utilizing its authority under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016. This directive is titled the "BIS QCO for the Steel Wires or Strands, Nylon or Wire Ropes and Wire Mesh (Quality Control) Order, 2023." It becomes effective six months after being officially published.

Goods or articles listed in a table must adhere to corresponding Indian Standards mentioned in the same table. They must display a Standard Mark, obtained through a license from the Bureau of Indian Standards as per Scheme-1 of Schedule-II to the Bureau of Indian Standards (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018.

However, this directive doesn't apply to goods manufactured domestically for export.

For micro enterprises (as defined in the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Act, 2006), the directive takes effect twelve months after the publication date.

For small enterprises, it takes effect nine months after the publication date.

The Bureau of Indian Standards is designated as the certifying and enforcing authority for the goods or articles specified in the table.

Any person who violates this directive is subject to punishment under the provisions of the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016. "BIS QCO for the Steel Wires or Strands, Nylon or Wire Ropes and Wire Mesh outlined rules regarding standards and markings, with the Bureau of Indian Standards overseeing certification and enforcement. Those who don't comply may face penalties under the law.

QCO - Quality Control Order