Introduction: Real-World Story

manufacturer of textile machinery, sat on millions in goods in inventory because it was detained by customs who demanded they also had BIS Scheme X Certification. The shipment had everything, quality and technology but unfortunately it wasn't legally compliant with the Bureau of Indian Standards Act 2016. This is not an isolated story, when European CNC machines come to India and when local manufacturers send goods to Africa, it is often the case that conformity assessment and certification schemes will determine how fast a business can scale. 

That is why today we are going to decode Scheme X Certification, Machinery and Electrical Equipment Safety standards, OTR registration, and the BIS registration process— in plain English— while still keeping the technical detail that will ensure you don’t go down the wrong corridor and incur major expense.

What is BIS Scheme X Certification?

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) established Scheme X as a special provision for machinery and electrical equipment under the Omnibus Technical Regulation (OTR). The scope of Scheme X is more flexible than the standard ISI Mark Scheme and covers products that do not fall under routine certification schemes.

Why Machinery and Electrical Equipment Safety Matters

• For example, an auto-parts unit in Ahmedabad was repeatedly stopped in its tracks because imported compressors didn't have the requisite certificate of conformity

• On the flip side, multinational behemoths like Siemens and ABB see BIS Registration as untouchable, because just one compliance miss could ruin their global reputation.

How the BIS Registration Process Works (Step by Step)

1. Application Filing

Manufacturers or importers apply to the Bureau of Indian Standards with product details, test reports, and documents.

2. Testing Under OTR

Equipment is tested in BIS-recognised labs as per the Omnibus Technical Regulation requirements.

3. Conformity Assessment

BIS officers assess whether machinery aligns with Scheme X guidelines, QCOs, and BIS Act 2016.

4. Grant of Certificate of Conformity

If successful, the manufacturer receives a Scheme X Certificate and the right to use the Scheme X logo.

Scheme X vs ISI Mark Scheme: What’s the Difference?

Role of Quality Control Orders (QCOs)

Almost every day, QCOs are issued by the government to the electronics, automotive, and heavy machinery sectors. Qualified Product Orders (QCOs) require that certain products sold/imported into India must possess BIS Certification (either ISI or Scheme X).

In 2023, following the release of new QCOs regarding household electrical appliances, many international brands rushed to apply for their OTR Registration under Scheme X.

The Bureau of Indian Standards Act 2016 and Its Impact

The BIS Act 2016 consolidated and expanded the scope of certification, ensuring consumer protection and product safety.

Key Highlights:

• Extended BIS’ authority to all products, not just a limited list.

• Enabled Compulsory Certification under QCOs.

• Allowed new schemes like Certification Scheme X for unique categories.

Understanding OTR Registration

The Omnibus Technical Regulation (OTR) is an integral element of Scheme X. It consolidates many technical requirements into a single regulation.

Think of it as a one-stop syllabus: instead of referring to ten separate rulebooks, your product is now evaluated against one consolidated regulation.

Conformity Assessment & Certificate of Conformity

The Certificate of Conformity (CoC) is the final proof that your machinery or equipment complies with Scheme X requirements.

• Without CoC, your shipment may be stuck at customs for weeks.

• With CoC, clearance is smooth, and clients see you as a reliable, safety-first partner.

Scheme X Logo: The Mark of Trust

The Scheme X logo is more than a stamp—it signals compliance, safety, and credibility. In many government tenders, products without this mark are automatically disqualified.

Conclusion: Key Takeaway

The path to compliance might seem complex, but the cost in lost opportunities for ignoring it is far greater. With the BIS Scheme X Certification, the Machinery and Electrical Equipment Safety standards, and the OTR Registration, you are fulfilling your obligation to a regulatory standard, building customer trust in your brand.

Why Choose Diligence Certifications ?

"Choosing Diligence Certifications means choosing peace of mind. We help businesses avoid delays due to customs issues and delays while helping with all Quality Control Orders on time, we are experts in BIS Scheme X Certification and Machinery & Electrical Equipment compliance. Our consultants will support your business to streamline the most simple yet complicated BIS Registration Process, and provide practical advice so you can be confident your products will carry the Scheme X logo. Our aim is to ensure compliance is easy, fast, painless and as stress-free as we can for you and your business! Whether you’re a first-time applicant or a multinational importing into India, we can help.”