Multipurpose Dry Batteries are commonly used in torches, remote controls, toys, etc. These batteries are a convenient means of supplying electrical power. These batteries are built to supply a constant electrical voltage to maintain their performance level. These batteries ensure reliability during their entire lifetime without leaking.
The BIS certification ensures that Dry Cells meet strict safety and performance standards. As per IS 8144: 2025, all specifications related to leakage prevention and electrical performance are mentioned. It also ensures that the batteries are safe for everyday use. A BIS license must be obtained by companies manufacturing dry cells to sell the batteries in the market. This helps to enhance the brand value and customers' trust.
What is IS 8144: 2025?
This is the Indian Standard for Multipurpose Dry Batteries. It mentions the criteria for safe usage under normal operating conditions. As per the BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards), batteries are:
- Tested for electrical performance
- Verified for service life
- Checked for leakage resistance
- Assessed for safety
- Evaluated for dimensional accuracy
Who is eligible for Dry Cell Batteries BIS License?
BIS authorisation under IS 8144: 2025 is required for businesses involved in manufacturing, importing, or supplying Household Battery in India.
Applicable to:
- Manufacturers (India) - Must get BIS approval if the products are covered under QCO.
- Foreign Manufacturers - Need certification to export dry cell batteries to India.
- Importers/Brand Owners - Must ensure that the products are BIS-certified before sale.
- Sellers/Distributors - Should only sell certified Dry Batteries.
Testing and Inspection Requirements
To ensure the safety of dry batteries, the Bureau of Indian Standards outlines the minimum requirements under IS 8144: 2025. This certification ensures that manufacturers meet the safety standards for multipurpose batteries. The BIS testing parameters and quality checks for the general-purpose dry batteries are listed below:
| Test Group | What is Tested | Purpose |
|---|
| Dimensions Tests | Battery physical dimensions and size conformity | Ensures proper fit, interchangeability, and compliance with standard sizes |
| Terminal Quality Tests | Battery terminal construction and contact integrity | Ensures proper electrical contact and reliable connection in devices |
| Marking & Identification Tests | Legibility and durability of markings on battery and packaging | Ensures traceability and permanent product identification |
| Initial Life Performance Tests | Battery discharge performance at initial usage stage | Ensures correct output and service life from first use |
| Delayed Life Tests | Battery performance after storage period | Ensures shelf life stability and retained capacity over time |
| Leakage Tests | Electrolyte leakage under normal and stress conditions | Ensures safety and prevents damage to devices and users |
| High Temperature Performance Tests | Battery performance under elevated temperature conditions | Ensures reliability in adverse environmental conditions |
| Discharge Performance Tests | Electrical output and capacity during the usage cycle | Ensures consistent energy delivery as per the rated specification |
| Electrical Reliability Tests | Overall electrical behaviour under load conditions | Ensures stable performance and avoids sudden failure |
Steps to get BIS Approval for Dry Power Cells
The BIS Authorisation process ensures that the Primary Batteries meet the required standards for proper and efficient operation. This process is set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and includes the following steps:
- Online Registration: Manufacturers register on the BIS Manak portal by submitting company, factory, and product details. Foreign manufacturers must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR).
- Testing at BIS-Approved Laboratory: Product samples are tested in BIS-approved laboratories for discharge characteristics, capacity performance, leakage resistance, dimensional compliance, and shelf life.
- Application Submission : The application is submitted along with test reports, technical documents, and factory details. Foreign manufacturers must also submit AIR-related documents.
- Factory Inspection: Officials from the Bureau of Indian Standards inspect the manufacturing units to verify the production process, safety measures, and quality control system.
- Grant of BIS License: After successful verification of all requirements, BIS issues the certification license under Scheme-I.
- Use of ISI Mark: Once approved, the manufacturer is authorized to affix the ISI mark on the product with a CM/L number, confirming that the product meets BIS standards.
IS 8144: 2025 Certification Documents Checklist
| Document Category | Documents Required |
|---|
| Basic Details | GST Certificate, Email ID & Contact Number, Factory & Office Address, Rent Agreement / Lease Deed (if applicable),Partnership Deed (if applicable for partnership firms) |
| Manufacturing Details | List of Machinery, Process Flow Chart, Factory Layout Plan |
| 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, Product Printing / Marking Details |
| Management Details | Top Management Details, BIS Communication Contact Person |
| 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 Manufacturer Requirement | Appointment of Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) for BIS coordination and compliance in India |
Foreign manufacturers are required to appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) in India. This representative is the local point of contact for the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and ensures all regulatory and compliance requirements are met in India.
Marking Requirements & License Validity
Marking Requirements
Once a manufacturer obtains BIS approval, the ISI Mark for Dry Cell Battery must be clearly and permanently marked on its packaging or on the product. Along with the ISI Mark, a few details such as the manufacturer’s identification and licence number (CM/L) must be written. This ensures the product complies with all safety standards. More details are mentioned below:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|
| ISI Mark | Indicates that the product is BIS certified and conforms to standards |
| Standard Number | IS 8144: 2025 |
| 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 is typically applied using durable stamping, tagging, or permanent printing to ensure clear identification during handling, storage, and transportation, as per BIS marking requirements.
Details for Dry Batteries BIS License Validity
| particulars | Details |
|---|
| Validity | Typically 1 to 2 years, depending on BIS approval conditions |
| Renewal | Must be renewed before expiry by submitting the application along with the prescribed fee and updated documents |
| Surveillane | Includes periodic factory inspections and market sample testing conducted by BIS |
| Compliance | Continuous following to standard and applicable Quality Control Orders (QCOs) is mandatory |
| Risk | Non-compliance or failed sample testing may lead to suspension or cancellation of the BIS license |
Cost for Dry Cells BIS Approval
The cost of BIS Approval for dry batteries 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.
- The marking fee is determined based on the product category and production volume (MSME benefits may apply).
- Testing charges are paid directly to BIS-recognised laboratories.
- Consultancy fees may vary depending on product type and factory location.
Conclusion
Certified dry batteries ensure reliable performance across a wide range of appliances. Dry cells provide users with improved power efficiency and enhanced safety. Customers using certified dry batteries can prevent device damage and early malfunction. Compliance with BIS standards under IS 8144: 2025 is necessary for ensuring the safety of the multipurpose batteries. Obtaining the product license means that the dry cells work well according to the standards set by the BIS. EVTL India provides assistance in obtaining the BIS certification for manufacturers. It offers help related to documentation, testing, and ensures a stress-free certification process.
