Indian toy standards better than global norms, boosting exports: Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)

Indian quality standards for toys surpass global benchmarks, aiding domestic manufacturers in expanding their exports, according to a senior official from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). The BIS has developed comprehensive Indian standards covering physical, chemical, and electrical safety requirements for toys, aligned with international norms set by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). To enforce these standards, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) implemented the Toys (Quality Control) Order, 2020, effective from January 1, 2021. This mandates that all toys sold in India, whether produced domestically or imported, comply with seven specific Indian standards and bear the Indian Standards Institution (ISI) mark under a valid BIS licence. Manufacturing, importing, or selling non-compliant toys is prohibited.
Scientist E and Director at the Western Regional Office Laboratory (WROL), BIS Mumbai, Mr. Adbhut Singh, emphasised that Indian standards are tailored to local weather and domestic needs, boosting both domestic and international sales of Indian toys. Currently, there are 1,640 BIS-certified toy manufacturers, with 1,165 licences for non-electronic and 475 for electronic toys. CEO of Zephyr Toymakers Pvt Ltd, Mr. Moiz Gabajiwala, highlighted that BIS standards have fostered innovation and created a level playing field, enabling the company to increase turnover to Rs. 25 crore (US$ 2.9 million) in FY25, targeting 20% growth in FY26. With 99% of raw materials sourced domestically, Zephyr produces one lakh to 1.5 lakh toys monthly across 15 categories. BIS certification ensures safety by eliminating hazards such as choking risks, sharp edges, and toxic substances, significantly reducing consumer complaints. To support smaller manufacturers, BIS offers testing relaxations and conducts training programmes, enhancing compliance and product quality across the industry. 

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