On February 26, 2024, the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, through the Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals, introduced the Diesel Engines – NOx Reduction Agent AUS 32 (Quality Control) Order, 2024. This order mandates compliance with quality standards for AUS 32, a NOx reduction agent used in diesel engines, to enhance product quality, environmental safety, and alignment with Indian standards.

If you are involved in the manufacturing, importing, or sale of AUS 32 for diesel engines, this regulation will impact your business operations. Issued after consultation with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), the order supports public interest under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016.

Key Provisions of the Diesel Engines – NOx Reduction Agent AUS 32 (Quality Control) Order, 2024

1. Title and Implementation Timeline 

Officially named the Diesel Engines – NOx Reduction Agent AUS 32 (Quality Control) Order, 2024, the regulation will take effect 180 days from its publication date in the Official Gazette (26^th August 2024).

   • This order applies specifically to AUS 32 used in diesel engines and does not apply to products intended exclusively for export.

2. Mandatory BIS Certification 

A key requirement of this order is the mandatory use of the BIS Standard Mark (ISI Mark) for AUS 32 used in NOx reduction for diesel engines. Products must comply with Indian Standard IS 17042 (Part-1): 2018 and display the ISI certification.

   • Manufacturers are required to obtain a BIS license to use the ISI Mark, ensuring that their products meet essential safety and environmental standards.

   • The certification applies exclusively to products for the domestic market; goods manufactured solely for export are exempt.

3. BIS as the Certifying Authority 

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is designated as the certifying and enforcing authority under this order. BIS is responsible for verifying that only certified AUS 32 products meeting Indian standards are available in the domestic market, thereby ensuring compliance and safeguarding environmental interests.

4. Penalties for Non-Compliance 

Any individual or entity found violating the Diesel Engines – NOx Reduction Agent AUS 32 (Quality Control) Order, 2024 will face penalties as stipulated under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016. This measure underscores the government’s commitment to upholding quality standards and regulatory compliance in emissions control.

This order marks a critical step toward maintaining quality and environmental standards for AUS 32, a key agent in emissions reduction for diesel engines. It aligns with the government’s focus on promoting cleaner technologies and enhancing regulatory standards across industries impacting environmental sustainability.

Stay compliant and prepare your business for these important regulatory changes to continue operating within the guidelines of the industry!

Implementation Dates:

- Date of implementation – 24^th December 2024