The Ministry of Steel has notified the Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024 under the powers granted by Sections 16, 17, and sub-section (3) of Section 25 of the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016. This new order replaces the earlier QCO of 2020 and takes effect from 5th February 2024, the date of publication in the Official Gazette.

This notification applies specifically to Mild Steel for Metal Arc Welding Electrodes, which must conform to IS 2879:1998 from the implementation date. All such products must bear the Standard Mark (ISI Mark) under a valid BIS license issued as per Scheme–I of Schedule–II of the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018. Each consignment must also be accompanied by a Test Certificate from a BIS-certified manufacturer.

Products manufactured exclusively for export are exempted, provided they meet the specifications demanded by foreign buyers.

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the designated authority for certification and enforcement. Non-compliance with this Order will attract penalties under Section 29 of the BIS Act, 2016.

Any future amendments or revisions to the Indian Standard notified by BIS will automatically apply to this QCO from their date of publication.