Flashlight Quality Control Order, 2025: Key Highlights and Compliance Guidelines
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry, through the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, has issued the Flashlight (Quality Control) Order, 2025, which came into effect on January 21, 2025. This new order aims to enforce quality standards for flashlights in the Indian market to ensure consumer safety and reliability.
Key Details of the Flashlight Quality Control Order, 2025:
1. Title and Commencement:
This order is titled the Flashlight (Quality Control) Order, 2025, and will come into force from its publication in the Official Gazette.
2. Compulsory Use of Standard Mark:
- Under this order, all flashlights must conform to the Indian Standard specified in IS 2083:2024 (Flashlight - Specification).
- The flashlights should bear the Standard Mark, granted under a license from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). This mark signifies that the product complies with the quality standards set by BIS.
- The order specifies a phased implementation schedule:
General Implementation: Six months from the date of publication.
Small Enterprises: Nine months from the publication.
Micro Enterprises: Twelve months from the publication.
3. Exceptions and Exemptions:
- Export Exemption: Flashlights manufactured in India for export purposes are exempt from the order.
- Research and Development: Manufacturers may import up to fifty flashlights per year for research and development. These products cannot be sold commercially and must be disposed of as scrap. Additionally, manufacturers must maintain a record of such imported goods.
4. Enforcement and Certification:
- The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) will be responsible for the certification and enforcement of this order.
- The Bureau will ensure that all flashlights meet the required safety and performance standards before they can be sold in the domestic market.
5. Penalties for Non-Compliance:
- Any individual or company found in violation of the provisions of this order will face penalties under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016.
Implementation Timeline for Different Enterprises:
Goods/Articles Indian Standard | General Implementation | Small Enterprises | Micro Enterprises |
Flashlights IS 2083:2024 | 6 months from publication | 9 months from publication | 12 months from publication |
Conclusion:
The Flashlight (Quality Control) Order, 2025, is a significant step in ensuring the safety and quality of flashlights sold in India. It aligns with the government's broader goal of promoting consumer safety and standardization across various industries. Companies, especially micro and small enterprises, must take note of the timeline and ensure compliance to avoid penalties. With BIS overseeing enforcement, consumers can expect higher-quality products in the market, ensuring a safer and more reliable user experience.
SCOPE
1.1 This standard specifies the requirements and tests for flashlights powered by replaceable primary batteries and replaceable/built-in secondary batteries with a maximum voltage of 48 V d.c.
1.2 This standard applies to pre-focused as well as focusing types of flashlights with an incandescent bulb and LED modules as a light source.
1.3 The following are not covered under the scope of this standard:
a) Cord and plug-connected handlamps that are within the scope of IS 10322 (Part 5/ Sec 6);
b) Emergency lighting that is within the scope of IS 10322 (Part 5/Sec 8); and
c) Flashlights that are intended for hazardous locations.
Stay updated and ensure that your products meet the new regulatory standards!