The Ministry of Textiles has introduced the "Medical Textiles (Quality Control) Order, 2023," which will take effect on April 1, 2024. For Small and Micro Enterprises (SMEs), the implementation date is extended to October 1, 2024.

The Order specifically applies to products such as reusable sanitary pads, sanitary napkins, and period panties. It excludes items intended for export and those produced by Self Help Groups (SHGs).

SHGs are defined as small, informal groups of 10 to 20 individuals with similar social and economic backgrounds, formed to promote savings and manage resources collectively. In hilly or tribal areas, groups with a minimum of 5 members may also qualify as SHGs.

To comply with this Order, reusable sanitary pads, sanitary napkins, and period panties must meet Indian Standard IS 17514:2021 and display the Standard Mark. This requires obtaining a license from the Bureau of Indian Standards under Scheme-I of Schedule-II of the Bureau of Indian Standards (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018.

Bureau of Indian Standards Manak Bhawan 9, B.S. Zafar Marg, New Delhi - 110002

Tel: +91-11-23231903

Email: txd@bis.gov.in, cmd2@bis.gov.in

Implementation Dates: For Small & Micro Enterprises (SME) – 1st October 2024

For Others – 1st April 2024

The Ministry of Textiles has announced the "Medical Textiles (Quality Control) Order, 2023," which will take effect on April 1, 2024. For Small and Micro Enterprises (SMEs), the implementation date is extended to October 1, 2024.

This order specifically pertains to products such as Reusable Sanitary Pads, Sanitary Napkins, and Period Panties. However, it excludes items meant for export and those produced by Self Help Groups (SHGs).

Self Help Groups (SHGs) are defined as small informal collectives of 10 to 20 individuals who come together voluntarily, sharing similar social and economic backgrounds. Their primary aim is to foster savings habits among members and collectively manage resources for mutual benefit. In hilly or tribal regions, smaller groups with a minimum of 5 members can also form SHGs.

For compliance, Reusable Sanitary Pads, Sanitary Napkins, and Period Panties must meet the Indian Standard IS 17514:2021 and display the Standard Mark. This requires a license from the Bureau of Indian Standards, in accordance with Scheme – I of Schedule – II of the Bureau of Indian Standards (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018.

Bureau of Indian Standards Manak Bhawan 9, B.S. Zafar Marg, New Delhi - 110002

Tel: +91-11-23231903

Email: txd@bis.gov.in, cmd2@bis.gov.in

Implementation Dates: 1st January 2025.