The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, has extended the timeline for the implementation of the Safety of Household, Commercial and Similar Electrical Appliances (Quality Control) Order, 2025. This move comes after stakeholder consultations chaired by Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Shri Piyush Goyal on 15th May 2025.
Aligned with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of establishing a robust quality ecosystem in India, the DPIIT has been actively notifying Quality Control Orders (QCOs) to elevate manufacturing standards and promote the global reputation of ‘Made in India’ products. These measures are supported by efforts to enhance testing infrastructure, develop product manuals, and accredit testing laboratories.
Taking into account concerns raised by the industry—especially regarding legacy stock and implementation difficulties—the DPIIT notified the revised QCO on 19th May 2025. To facilitate ease of doing business, the implementation has been deferred to 19th March 2026 for domestic large and medium enterprises, as well as for foreign manufacturers.
The QCO covers electrical appliances meant for household, commercial, or similar uses, with rated voltage not exceeding 250V for single-phase appliances and 480V for others, including battery-operated and DC-supplied devices. Appliances already under separate QCOs or mandatory BIS certification are excluded from this regulation.
Key relaxations and exemptions under the revised QCO include:
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Extended timelines for MSMEs: An additional 6-month extension for micro enterprises and a 3-month extension for small enterprises.
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Import exemptions: Domestic manufacturers producing export-oriented products are exempt from QCO-related import restrictions.
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R&D exemptions: Import of up to 200 units allowed for research and development purposes.
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Legacy stock clearance: Products manufactured or imported prior to the effective date may be cleared within six months of the QCO’s enforcement.
This regulatory initiative aims to curb the entry of sub-standard products into the Indian market, ensuring consumer safety while enhancing the competitiveness of Indian manufacturers. It reflects the Government’s ongoing efforts to foster a world-class, self-reliant manufacturing ecosystem as part of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat mission.
QCOs such as this one signify a strategic approach to improving product quality standards across sectors, helping Indian industries compete effectively both at home and on the global stage.
