The Centre has introduced a risk-based compliance mechanism to ease industry compliance with Quality Control Orders (QCOs), allowing eligible manufacturers to follow a simplified certification route while maintaining product quality and consumer protection, according to PTI.The new framework has been notified through the Transition Facilitation (Quality Control) Order, 2026, amid concerns raised by several industries over difficulties in obtaining Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification under existing quality control norms.According to the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), the order introduces “an alternative risk-based compliance mechanism to facilitate a smooth transition for industry while maintaining quality assurance and consumer protection”.Under the new mechanism, domestic manufacturers will be allowed to source supplies from companies holding licences under Scheme II of the Bureau of Indian Standards (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018, instead of requiring suppliers to have Scheme I (ISI Mark) certification.Scheme II is a BIS registration system that allows manufacturers to supply products based on self-declaration of compliance with Indian standards, whereas Scheme I requires factory inspections, surveillance and the grant of an ISI Mark licence by BIS.The government said approvals under the new mechanism will be based on factors such as technical capability, past compliance record, commitment to technology adoption, research and design capabilities, innovation, and efforts to strengthen domestic supply chains.The order also extends benefits to manufacturers that have complied with Quality Control Orders continuously for three years without any default, recognising sustained adherence to quality standards.“The reform seeks to facilitate industry compliance while maintaining quality standards. By providing an alternative compliance mechanism, the Order is expected to support technological modernisation, innovation and the strengthening of India’s manufacturing ecosystem,” DPIIT said.The initiative is expected to strengthen domestic value chains, promote technology advancement, reduce compliance bottlenecks and improve India’s integration with global supply chains while reinforcing consumer confidence in the quality and safety of products available in the domestic market.
