The Bureau of Indian Standards has introduced important changes to the licence validity and renewal process under Scheme-II of the BIS Conformity Assessment framework. The update is intended to provide manufacturers with longer licence continuity while keeping annual compliance obligations in place.
Under the revised provisions, a licence to use the Standard Mark under Scheme-II may now be granted for up to five years. Renewal can also be approved for a further period of up to five years. This is a significant change for manufacturers and license holders because it reduces the need for frequent renewal activity and supports better long-term compliance planning.
However, the longer licence period does not remove yearly obligations. BIS has made it clear that the required fees must still be paid annually in advance by the prescribed due date. This applies to the grant of a licence, renewal of a licence, and continuation of a valid licence.
Licence holders must also submit the required production details within the prescribed timeline. If the annual fee and production details are not submitted on time, the licence may face regulatory action under the applicable BIS provisions. This may include suspension, deferment, cancellation, or expiry of the licence.
The key points for businesses are:
- Scheme-II licences may now be granted for up to five years.
- Renewals may also be allowed for up to five years.
- Annual fees must be paid in advance every year.
- Production details must be submitted on time.
- Non-payment or delayed submission can affect licence continuity.
- Renewal applications should be planned well in advance of expiry.
This update is beneficial for manufacturers because it provides greater stability and reduces the pressure to renew repeatedly. At the same time, businesses must maintain a strong internal compliance calendar to avoid missed payment dates or delayed production reporting.
Manufacturers, overseas manufacturers, and Authorised Indian Representatives dealing with Scheme-II products should review their current licence records, check upcoming renewal dates, and ensure annual fee payments and production detail submissions are completed within the required timeline.