Introduction to BIS for Switchgears
In a significant update for global manufacturers and compliance teams, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has extended the implementation timeline for Scheme X certification of most low-voltage switchgear products by six months moving the compliance deadline from 10th May 2025 to 10th November 2025.
However, it is important to note that IS/IEC 60947-2:2016 circuit breakers remain mandatory and are not covered under this extension.
This follows the earlier regulatory advisory that NKG Advisory shared in our previous blog on Switchgear Motor Controllers & Proximity Switches. This latest update provides much-needed clarity to manufacturers, especially those exporting to India or supporting Indian supply chains.
In this read, we provide an updated view on the Scheme X process for BIS certification for switchgears, what the new extension means for your compliance planning, and what actions you should take now.
What Does the Extension Cover?
The Ministry of Heavy Industries, via its official notification dated 5th May 2025, extended the enforcement timeline under the Electrical Equipment (Quality Control) Second Amendment Order, 2024.
Key points:
- For product categories listed in serial numbers 1.2(a), 1.3(a), 2.1(a), 3.1(a), 4, 5, 6.1(a), 7, and 8.1 of the said order, the compliance deadline is extended from 10th May 2025 to 10th November 2025.
- Exception: Products under IS/IEC 60947-2:2016 — Low-voltage switchgear and controlgear: Part 2 Circuit Breakers (First Revision), AC Circuit Breakers (Category A), ratings up to 630A and up to 440V AC — remain mandatorily under BIS license from 10th May 2025, with no extension granted.
This is a critical distinction, while most manufacturers can use this extended window to complete their Scheme X certification process, suppliers of the specified IS/IEC 60947-2:2016 circuit breakers must ensure compliance immediately.
Recap: Scheme X Certification Process for Switchgears
If you are new to the process, here is a brief recap of the key steps involved in obtaining a switchgears license under Scheme X:
1. Product Testing
- Testing of switchgear products must be conducted at a BIS-recognized laboratory under the applicable Indian Standard.
- The test report is a critical prerequisite before applying for the Scheme X license.
2. Application Submission
- Manufacturers (both domestic and foreign) must submit their application through the official BIS portal, along with:
- Test reports
- Product specifications
- Factory details
- Applicable fees
3. Factory Inspection
- A factory inspection is conducted by BIS officials as part of the approval process.
- The goal is to verify production capabilities, and quality management systems, and ensure consistency with the certified product.
4. Grant of License
- Upon successful factory inspection and verification of documents, BIS grants the manufacturer a switchgears license under Scheme X.
- The license permits the manufacturer to affix the ISI mark on certified products.
5. Post-Certification Surveillance
- Periodic surveillance, including factory audits and market sampling, is conducted by BIS to ensure ongoing compliance.
What Manufacturers Should Do Now
If you are supplying IS/IEC 60947-2:2016 circuit breakers:
✅ You must ensure your products are already certified and licensed under Scheme X — the enforcement date of 10th May 2025 is live and no further extensions apply.
If you are supplying other switchgear categories under the extended list:
✅ You now have until 10th November 2025 to complete the Scheme X certification process.
✅ Use this additional window to:
- Finalize product testing
- Prepare and submit your application
- Schedule factory inspections
- Address any process or documentation gaps
If you were already preparing for the earlier deadline:
✅ Continue progressing with your application, the extension should not be seen as a reason for delay.
✅ BIS is known to experience processing bottlenecks closer to deadlines, early compliance ensures better market access and avoids last-minute challenges.
Why Early Action Still Matters
Though an extension has been granted, several manufacturers globally are using this window to:
- Align their internal processes with Indian regulatory expectations
- Clarify documentation requirements with their RA and QA teams
- Coordinate inspections well ahead of the deadline
- Avoid supply chain disruptions that occur when shipments are delayed due to non-compliance
Remember, achieving a scheme x license requires proactive planning, and NKG Advisory strongly advises against relying on last-minute processing.
Resource Box
- Official Gazette Notification: Extension of Implementation Timeline under the Electrical Equipment Quality Control Order (May 2025)
- Previous reference: Switchgear Motor Controllers & Proximity Switches — BIS QCO Readiness
Conclusion
The latest extension for BIS for switchgears under Scheme X offers manufacturers additional time to meet India’s evolving compliance expectations, but the clarity of action is key.
With IS/IEC 60947-2:2016 circuit breakers still fully mandatory and enforcement now in effect, and the broader Scheme X deadline now reset to 10th November 2025, this is an ideal moment to streamline your approach.
At NKG Advisory, we continue to support global manufacturers, export heads, and RA teams in navigating the full Scheme X certification process, from document readiness to smooth BIS approvals.
👉 If you need specialist guidance to ensure seamless compliance for your switchgear products, contact NKG Advisory today, we’re here to help you stay ahead.
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