Ensure Legal Compliance with BIS Certification for Visual Display Units
As India continues to evolve into a digitally empowered society, the demand for high-performance electronics such as Visual Display Units (VDUs) is surging. These products are used extensively in consumer electronics, education, health care, automation systems, and surveillance operations. However, ensuring that only safe and reliable VDUs are sold in India requires strong regulatory oversight.
To uphold these standards, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) enforces mandatory BIS CRS Certification for VDU under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS). For all manufacturers, importers, and brand owners, legal compliance with BIS CERTIFICATION FOR VISUAL DISPLAY UNITS for video monitors is a non-negotiable requirement.
This article offers a detailed exploration of the legal framework, the role of BIS certification, its benefits, application process, consequences of non-compliance, and the future landscape for VDU manufacturers.
What Are Visual Display Units (VDUs)
Visual Display Units (VDUs) are devices designed to display video output, usually in the form of monitors, control screens, and display panels. These include:
- LED and LCD computer monitors (up to 32 inches)
- Standalone video monitors
- Touch-enabled monitors
- Industrial and professional display units
Given their electrical nature and constant human interaction, these devices must comply with national safety and quality standards before entering the Indian market.
What is BIS CRS Certification for VDU?
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) operates the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) to regulate electronics and IT products. Under this scheme, BIS CRS for video monitors is mandatory.
The applicable standard is: IS 13252 (Part 1):2010 – Information technology equipment – General safety requirements
This ensures that video monitors are safe from electrical shocks, fire hazards, short circuits, and electromagnetic interference.
Legal Basis for Certification
The requirement for BIS CRS certification for VDU comes from the Electronics and Information Technology Goods (Requirement for Compulsory Registration) Order, 2012, issued by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
This legal mandate means:
- Any VDU (up to 32") must be BIS-certified before import, sale, or distribution in India.
- Products must display the Standard Mark with the unique registration number.
- Non-compliance leads to heavy penalties, seizure, or market bans.
Who Must Obtain BIS Certification?
- Domestic Manufacturers – Producing VDUs in India for local sale or export
- Importers – Importing foreign-made monitors to sell in India
- Brand Owners / OEMs – Selling under a private label in Indian markets
Why Legal Compliance Matters: Key Impacts
1. Avoid Legal Penalties and Enforcement Actions
The BIS Act grants the authority to impose:
- Fines up to ₹2 lakh for non-certified products
- Criminal proceedings in serious violations
- Confiscation of stock by customs and enforcement agencies
Being compliant eliminates all these risks.
2. Ensure Seamless Product Importation
Customs officers are mandated to:
- Check for BIS certification on regulated products
- Hold uncertified shipments
- Deny clearance or return goods to the country of origin
Certified products sail through customs, reducing delays and logistics costs.
3. Mandatory for Listing on E-commerce Platforms
Major platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, and Tata Cliq now require BIS CRS CERTIFICATION FOR VDU before listing. Without certification:
- Your product will be delisted
- You may lose access to millions of online buyers
- Your seller account may be flagged for non-compliance
4. Participation in Tenders and Bulk Supply Contracts
Government institutions and PSUs often issue tenders that include BIS certification as a pre-qualification criterion.
Without it:
- You lose access to high-value contracts
- Your business remains excluded from institutional sales
5. Protects Consumer Rights and Company Reputation
Selling uncertified VDUs could lead to:
- Product failure or safety incidents
- Negative customer reviews
- Legal complaints in consumer courts
Legal compliance through BIS CRS Certification for VDU builds brand credibility and trust.
Certification Process for BIS CRS for Video Monitors
Here’s how manufacturers or importers can obtain certification:
Product Testing in BIS Lab
- Submit VDU samples to a BIS-recognized laboratory
- Testing is conducted as per IS 13252 (Part 1):2010
- Tests include insulation, energy efficiency, heat resistance, EMC compliance, etc
Documentatin Submission
Include:
- Factory license
- Brand owner authorization
- Technical specifications
- Product manual
- Business registration certificate
- BIS test report
Online Application on BIS Portal
BIS Review and Grant of Certificate
- BIS officials verify application and test results
- On approval, the Standard Mark and Registration Number are issued
Affixing BIS Mark
- BIS logo and registration number must appear on:
- Product label
- Packaging box
- User manual
Certification Timeline and Validity
|
Aspect |
Details |
|
Processing Time |
4–6 weeks |
|
Initial Validity |
2 years |
|
Renewal Period |
Up to 5 years |
|
Testing Fees |
₹25,000–₹45,000 per model (approx.) |
|
Application Charges |
₹10,000–₹15,000 (approx.) |
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Selling VDUs without BIS certification can lead to:
- Legal prosecution under the BIS Act
- Immediate seizure at ports or warehouses
- Ban from e-commerce and retail distribution
- Loss of market access and damaged business reputation
Future-Proofing with BIS Compliance
India is moving towards stricter quality enforcement across industries. Complying today helps you:
- Stay ahead of regulation changes
- Build a sustainable, legal business
- Protect from future audits and crackdowns
- Boost brand image in both domestic and international markets
Conclusion
EVTL India is one of the leading BIS Consultant in India, helping manufacturers obtain their BIS licences hassle-free. For manufacturers and importers of VDUs, securing BIS CRS certification for VDU is more than just a formality—it’s a legal obligation backed by national policy. It ensures product safety, protects consumer interest, and builds a reliable electronics ecosystem in India. Legal compliance with BIS CRS for video monitors not only avoids enforcement risks but also creates pathways to broader market acceptance, improved sales, and long-term brand recognition. If you're in the visual display business, ensuring BIS certification isn't an option—it’s the foundation of a legally compliant, trustworthy, and scalable business in India.
FAQs
What screen sizes are covered under the BIS CRS for video monitors?
Only monitors up to and including 32 inches are currently regulated. Monitors above this may not require certification (subject to changes). Can one certificate cover multiple VDU models?
Only if the models are identical in design and components. Variants usually require separate testing and certification.
Is BIS certification required for imported monitors?
Yes. Imported VDUs must be certified before being sold or distributed in India.
How long does the BIS certification process take?
Generally, 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the testing lab and documentation completeness.
Can foreign manufacturers apply directly?
No. Foreign brands must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) who will apply on their behalf.
