The Ministry of Commerce and Industry, in consultation with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), has issued a new Quality Control Order for ferrules used in water services. This QCO is called the "Water Meters and Accessories (Quality Control) Order, 2023. 

As per this quality control order the manufacturers and suppliers of ferrules for water services must ensure their products conform to Indian Standard IS 2692:1989. These ferrules must bear the Standard Mark (ISI Mark) under a license from the BIS, following Scheme-1 of Schedule-II to the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018. The order does not apply to goods manufactured for export. 

The order will come into effect six months after its publication in the Official Gazette. For small enterprises, the order will come into effect nine months after publication. For micro enterprises, the order will come into effect twelve months after publication. 

The BIS will be responsible for certifying and enforcing these standards. Anyone who does not comply with this order will face penalties under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016.

Manufacturers and suppliers of ferrules for water services must adhere to these new quality standards by the specified dates. This Quality Control Order aims to ensure that ferrules are reliable and meet high-quality standards, thus benefiting the public and maintaining trust in water services. Compliance with these new regulations is crucial to avoid any legal issues and to support the public interest in maintaining high standards for water service components.

Implementation Dates: Date of implementation for General (other than Micro and Small Enterprises): 5th September 2024

- Date of implementation for Small Enterprises: 5th December 2024.