On 6th March 2024, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, through its Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), issued an important notification called the V-Belt (Quality Control) Order, 2024. This order has significant implications for manufacturers, particularly those producing Endless V-Belts for Industrial Purposes - General Purpose, as it makes adhering to specific quality standards compulsory. 

Here's a simplified breakdown of what this order means and why it matters: 

Key Points of the V-Belt (Quality Control) Order, 2024

1. Mandatory Compliance with Indian Standards
   Starting from six months after the order's publication, Endless V-Belts for Industrial Purposes - General Purpose must comply with the Indian Standard IS 2494 (Part 1): 1994. This standard outlines the quality and performance requirements for General Purpose Endless V-Belts. 

Manufacturers must ensure that their products meet these standards to be sold in India. V-Belts that comply with the standard will be allowed to bear the Standard Mark, also known as the ISI Mark, which signifies their quality and safety. 

2. When Does It Come into Effect?

·       For most manufacturers, the order will come into effect six months from the date of the official notification (i.e., by      6^th September 2024).

·       However, for micro enterprises, the deadline extends to twelve months (6^th March 2025).

·       For small enterprises, the deadline is nine months (6^th December 2024).

    This staggered timeline gives smaller manufacturers more time to comply. 

3. Exemptions for Exported Goods

The order clarifies that V-Belts produced for export do not need to comply with these standards. This means that companies making V-Belts for sale outside India are exempt from this requirement. 

4. Certification and Enforcement

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) will be responsible for certifying and enforcing this order. BIS will issue licenses to manufacturers, authorizing them to use the ISI Mark on their products. Only licensed manufacturers will be able to sell their V-Belts in the Indian market after the order comes into force. 

5. Penalties for Non-Compliance

Any manufacturer who fails to comply with this order will face penalties under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016. This could include fines or other legal actions, depending on the violation. 

Stay compliant and keep your business ahead of the curve by preparing for these upcoming changes in the hand tools industry!

Implimentation Dates: Date of implementation for General (other than Micro and Small Enterprises): 6th September 2024

- Date of implementation for Small Enterprises: 6th December 2024.

BIS Certification for Endless V-Belts for Industrial Purposes-General Purpose IS 2494 (Part 1): 1994