Centre’s 2026 QCO relaxation allows five-year transition for selected sectors under BIS rules

Direct fact

In June 2026, the Union government notified the Transition Facilitation (Quality Control) Order, 2026, giving selected manufacturers a five-year mechanism to transition under Quality Control Orders (QCOs) while the Ministry of Commerce and Industry continues the quality-standard regime started from 2020.

Key specifics

• The order applies to QCOs covering toys, personal protective footwear, air conditioners, rubber footwear, electric water heaters, washing machines, hinges, furniture and electrical safety equipment.
• Scheme II of Schedule II of BIS regulations allows self-declaration of compliance, while Scheme I requires factory inspections, surveillance and an ISI Mark licence.
• Eligible companies must be registered under the Companies Act, 2013 and pass risk assessment by an Implementation Committee.
• The Implementation Committee includes officials from DPIIT, Department of Consumer Affairs, DGFT and Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
• The order remains in force for 5 years from commencement unless extended by notification in the Official Gazette.

Exam lens

TNPSC economy and governance question: identify QCO, BIS Scheme I vs Scheme II, Companies Act, 2013, and the 5-year validity of the 2026 order.