The government has introduced the Insulated Flask , Bottles and Containers for Domestic Use (Quality Control) Order, 2023. The Order was notified on 14th July, 2023.
According to the Order, specified goods or articles shall comply with the Indian Standards. Additionally, these goods must bear the Standard Mark under a license from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) as per the Bureau of Indian Standards (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018.
The Order aims to ensure that products meet the prescribed quality standards and adhere to the best practices in the industry.
However, it is important to note that the Order exempts goods or articles manufactured domestically for export purposes. Furthermore, the Order also provides an exemption to goods or articles manufactured domestically by enterprises registered under the “Udyam portal” of the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). To avail of this exemption, the investment in plant and machinery or equipment at original cost must not exceed INR 25 lakhs, and the turnover should not exceed INR 2 crores for the previous financial year, as certified by a Chartered Accountant.
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has been designated as the certifying and enforcing authority for the goods or articles specified in the Table. Non-compliance with the provisions of this Order will attract penalties as per the provisions of the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016.
The Quality Control Order, 2023, will come into force six months from the date of its notification, providing sufficient time for manufacturers and industries to align their processes with the prescribed standards.
Small Enterprises, as defined under the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Development Act, 2006, will be required to comply with the Order nine months from the date of publication of the notification. Micro Enterprises, as per the same Act, will have twelve months from the date of publication of the notification to adhere to the Order.