Shallow well handpumps are manually operated water lifting devices used to draw water from low-depth underground sources and are commonly found in rural and semi-urban areas. These pumps are widely used for drinking water, irrigation, and household needs where the water table is relatively close to the surface. They are designed for easy operation and regular use in community and domestic settings.
To ensure these handpumps meet proper quality and performance requirements, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has set specific guidelines under IS 8035:2022. Manufacturers must obtain BIS certification before supplying shallow well handpumps in the Indian market, confirming that the product complies with defined safety and construction standards.
What is IS 8035:2022
This is the Indian Standard that specifies the requirements for shallow well handpumps used for drawing water from low-depth sources. It is issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to ensure that the pump is suitable for regular use in water supply applications.
The standard ensures that the product is:
- Designed with proper materials for safe and efficient water lifting
- Capable of operating smoothly under manual use
- Suitable for installation in shallow water sources
- Built with components that fit and function correctly
- Properly tested for performance, construction quality, and consistency
Eligibility Criteria for BIS Certification of Shallow Well Handpump
BIS license as per IS 8035 is required for all entities involved in the production and sale of these handpumps in India.
It’s applicable for :
- Manufacturers – Must obtain BIS certification for handpumps made in India.
- Importers – Must ensure imported products are BIS certified before sale.
- Suppliers/Distributors – Must sell only BIS-compliant product in the market.
BIS Testing & Quality Standards for Handpumps
To ensure proper working and consistent performance of these handpumps, the Bureau
of Indian Standards has defined testing and inspection requirements under IS
8035:2022.
What are R and S?
- R (Required): Tests must be conducted in the manufacturer’s in-house facility
- S (Subcontracting Allowed): Tests can be done in BIS-recognized or approved
external labs
Raw Material Verification
- Material Check (S): Confirms that components like casting, steel parts, rubber,
and plastics meet relevant IS standards
- Supplier Test Certificate Review (S): Ensures materials are received with
proper certification or ISI marking
Dimensional and Construction Checks
- Critical Dimensions Check (R): Verifies important sizes of pump components
as per standard drawings
- Bore Measurement (R): Ensures correct internal diameter of pump body using
gauges
- Assembly Fit Check (R): Confirms proper fitting of all parts in the pump system
Performance Testing
- Hydrostatic Pressure Test (R): Checks leakage and strength under pressure
conditions
- Discharge Test (R): Measures water output to confirm proper functioning
- Operational Check (R): Ensures smooth manual operation of the handpump
Surface and Finish Inspection
- Visual Inspection (R): Ensures no visible defects in casting or assembly
- Anti-Corrosive Treatment Check (S): Verifies galvanising or painting as per
requirements
- Coating Quality Check (S): Confirms proper surface protection for outdoor use
How to Get BIS License for Shallow Well Pumps
To obtain the license, the BIS certification process ensures that the product meets the
required standard for proper and efficient operation as defined by the Bureau of Indian
Standards (BIS). The process includes the following steps:
- Online Registration: Manufacturers register on the BIS Manak Online Portal by submitting company
details, factory information, and product specifications. Foreign manufacturers
must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) in India.
- Testing at BIS-Approved Laboratory: Product samples are tested in BIS-approved laboratories to evaluate strength,
corrosion resistance, durability, and overall performance.
- Application Submission: The application is submitted along with laboratory test reports, technical
documents, manufacturing process details, and factory information. Foreign
manufacturers must also provide AIR-related documents.
- Factory Inspection: BIS officials conduct an on-site inspection of the manufacturing unit to verify
production processes, quality control systems, safety measures, and compliance
with the standard.
- Grant of BIS License: If all requirements are successfully met, BIS issues the certification license under
Scheme-I, allowing the manufacturer to produce and sell certified products.
- Use of ISI Mark: After certification approval, the manufacturer is permitted to use the ISI mark
along with a CM/L number on the product, confirming compliance with the
standard.

Required BIS Documents for Handpumps under IS 8035
The following documents are typically required for obtaining BIS approval for the
pumps:
| Basic Details | - GST Certificate
- Email ID & Contact Number
- Factory & Office Address
- Rent Agreement / Lease Deed (if applicable)
|
| Legal Documents | - Partnership Deed (if partnership firm)
|
| Manufacturing Details | - List of machinery
- Process flow chart
- Layout Plan of Factory
|
| Raw Material Details | - List of Raw Materials
- Supplier Details
- Raw Material Invoices
- Raw Material Test Certificates
|
| Testing & Quality Control | - List of Testing Equipment
- Calibration Certificates
- QC / Lab In-charge Appointment Letter & Qualification
|
| Production Details | - Annual Installed Capacity
- Last Year Production Value
|
| Product & Packaging Details | - Quantity per Package
- Nature of Packing
- Nature of Printing / Marking on Product
|
| Management Details | - Top Management Details
- Concerned Person for BIS Communication
|
| Brand & Certification Documents | - Trademark / Brand Certificate
- Consent Letter from BIS Recognized Laboratory
|
| Additional Documents | - Weekly Off Details
- Hygiene Document (if applicable)
- Relaxation Letter (if applicable)
- Any Other Relevant Document
|
Foreign manufacturers must additionally appoint an Authorized Indian Representative
(AIR) to coordinate with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and manage compliance
requirements in India.
Marking Requirements and ISI Labeling
After obtaining the BIS license, the ISI mark for handpumps must be clearly and
permanently applied on the product or its packaging. Other required details are provided
in the table below. This ensures the product is compliant with applicable quality and
safety standards.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|
| ISI Mark | Indicates that the product is BIS certified and conforms to standards |
| Standard Number | IS 8035 |
| CML Number | Certification Marks License (CML) number issued by BIS |
| Manufacturer Details | Name of manufacturer or registered trademark |
| Batch / Date | Batch number, heat number, or manufacturing date for traceability |
Note:
Marking should be done using stamping, tags, or permanent printing so the product can
be easily identified during handling, storage, and transport, as per BIS requirements.
BIS License Validity for Shallow well Pumps
After getting BIS certification, the license is valid for a limited period. Manufacturers
must follow BIS rules and maintain product quality to keep the license active.
License Validity Details
| Parameter | Details |
|---|
| Initial Validity | Usually valid for 1 to 2 years, based on BIS approval |
| Renewal | Must be renewed before expiry with required documents and fees |
| Surveillance | BIS conducts factory inspections and may test market samples |
| Compliance | Continuous compliance with IS standards and QCOs is required |
| Risk | May lead to suspension or cancellation of the license |
BIS Approval Cost for Handpumps
The cost of BIS certification includes charges for application, inspection, license, testing,
and marking. These fees are paid to BIS as per Scheme I guidelines.
| Charge Type | Indian Manufacturers | Foreign Manufacturers |
|---|
| Application Fee | INR 1,000 | USD 15 |
| Audit Charges | INR 7,000 | USD 3,200 – 5,900 |
| License Fee | INR 1,000 | USD 15 |
| Marking Fee | As applicable | As applicable |
| Testing Charges | As applicable | As applicable |
| EVTL India Consultancy Fee | As per actual | As per actual |
Note:
- Application fee for foreign manufacturers is payable via SWIFT (SAARC
countries may pay in INR with applicable GST).
- Audit charges for foreign manufacturers vary based on country/location.
- Marking fee depends on the product category and production volume (MSME
benefits may apply).
- Testing charges are paid directly to BIS-approved laboratories.
- Consultancy fees depend on product type and factory location.
Conclusion
BIS certification for shallow well handpumps under IS 8035:2022 ensures that the
product meets the required standards for construction, performance, and proper
functioning in water lifting applications. It confirms that the handpump is tested for
dimensions, pressure handling, discharge capacity, and overall assembly as per the
standard.
With proper testing, documentation, and compliance with BIS requirements,
manufacturers can complete the certification process smoothly and supply their
products in the Indian market. Support from an experienced BIS consultant like EVTL
India can help manage the process more efficiently and reduce delays.