BIS Certification for Pumps and Liquid Elevators in India: Scheme X Explained

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In a rapidly developing country like India, where industrial and infrastructure growth is accelerating, ensuring the safety, efficiency, and quality of critical machinery is more important than ever. Among the essential equipment driving various sectors, pumps and liquid elevators are crucial for operations in agriculture, water management, construction, oil & gas, pharmaceuticals, and more.

To improve product safety and quality, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has implemented Scheme X Certification, a compulsory regulatory framework. This certification ensures that both domestic and international manufacturers meet Indian quality standards before entering the Indian market.

In this article, we will break down the importance of BIS certification, the impact of Scheme X on pumps and liquid elevators, and how manufacturers can navigate the certification process.

Why Pumps and Liquid Elevators Matter

Pumps

These devices move liquids or slurries from one location to another and are used in:

Irrigation systems
Municipal water supplies
Sewage treatment plants
Oil & gas pipelines
HVAC systems

What Is BIS and What Is Scheme X?

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is India’s national standards body responsible for setting and maintaining product quality benchmarks.

To regulate machinery and electrical equipment, BIS introduced Scheme X Certification on March 16, 2022, under the BIS Conformity Assessment Regulations, 2018.

Key Points of Scheme X:

Mandatory for all manufacturers, both Indian and international
Covers pumps, motors, and liquid elevators under notified Indian Standards
Includes product testing, factory inspections, and continuous compliance checks

Omnibus Technical Regulation Order, 2024: A Game Changer

The Ministry of Heavy Industries issued the Omnibus Technical Regulation Order (OTRO), 2024, mandating that all types of pumps and liquid elevators comply with Scheme X Certification by 28th August 2025.

Also Read: Safety Regulations for Machinery and Electrical Equipment

OTRO Highlights

No sale or import of non-certified pumps or elevators post-deadline

Applies to a broad range of equipment:

Centrifugal pumps
Submersible pumps
Diaphragm pumps
Positive displacement pumps
Liquid elevators of all types

Enforces global compliance for access to the Indian market

Why Is BIS Certification for Pumps & Liquid Elevators Important?

Product Safety

Ensures compliance with design, material, and performance standards—reducing risks like:

Mechanical failure
Electrical faults
Leaks and corrosion

Consumer Trust

Certified products assure end-users of high quality, durability, and safety.

Market Advantage

BIS certification is often a mandatory requirement in public tenders, offering a competitive edge in the Indian market.

Global Market Entry

For foreign brands, BIS certification ensures smooth entry and acceptance in India’s regulated sectors.

Pump Types Covered Under BIS Scheme X Certification

The certification is applicable to a wide range of pumps, including:

Centrifugal Pumps
Submersible Pumps
Booster Pumps
Multistage Pumps
Positive Displacement Pumps
Vertical Turbine Pumps
Chemical Process Pumps
Diaphragm Pumps
Slurry Pumps

Each pump type must meet specific Indian Standards (IS codes) like IS 9079, IS 6595, etc.

Liquid Elevators

Though not as common, liquid elevators are crucial in vertical fluid transport systems. Certification covers aspects like:

Flow rate
Head height
Material compatibility
Power efficiency
Operational safety

Step-by-Step BIS Scheme X Certification Process

Identify Applicable Standards: Refer to IS codes relevant to your product category (e.g., IS 9079 for submersible pumps).
Product Testing: Conduct performance and safety tests at BIS-accredited labs.
Factory Inspection: BIS officials inspect production facilities to verify quality control and standards.
Documentation Submission: Prepare and submit: Technical specifications Test reports Quality manuals Application forms
Grant of License: If approved, BIS issues a license to use the Standard Mark under Scheme X.
Ongoing Surveillance: Periodic audits and testing ensure continuous compliance.

Non-Compliance Consequences

Manufacturers failing to get certified by August 28, 2025, face:

Ban on sale/import of uncertified products
Product seizures and fines
Disqualification from government tenders
Reputational damage

Conclusion

The enforcement of BIS Scheme X Certification for pumps and liquid elevators under the Omnibus Technical Regulation Order 2024 is a landmark step toward quality assurance and industrial standardization in India.

For manufacturers, importers, and exporters, this isn’t just about meeting regulations—it’s a strategic investment in brand reputation, market access, and customer trust.

For more information contact us at cs@absoluteveritas.com