General Purpose Shoes have been in high demand in almost all types of work settings including
industries, factories, commercial enterprises, and personal purposes where comfort, toughness,
and foot safety are primary concerns. The quality and performance of the footwear determine
the safety and performance of the person wearing it. Footwear manufacturers shall also have to
comply with all the provisions given in BIS IS 17043 (Part 2):2024 for Shoes for General
Purpose to ensure user safety and injury prevention.
Some of the critical technical requirements for Shoes for General Purpose include materials
quality, construction, sole performance, slip-resistance, durability, strength, comfort, and overall
safety properties of footwear. All Shoes for General Purpose products must necessarily meet all
criteria of BIS certification for Shoes for General Purpose and other requirements of the BIS
Quality Conformity Objective (QCO). BIS ISI marking on general purpose shoes represents the
compliance of the products to the Indian quality norms and assures buyers about the quality of
the product.
What is IS 17043 (Part 2):2024 for General Purpose Shoes?
This is the Indian Standard for general-purpose shoes. It mentions the quality and performance
criteria to ensure the shoes are suitable for daily use. As per the BIS (Bureau of Indian
Standards), footwear is:
- Checked for material quality
- Verified for slip resistance
- Assessed for flexibility
- Tested for durability
Importance of BIS ISI Certification for Shoes for General
Purpose (IS 17043 (Part 2):2024)
BIS ISI certification of General Purpose Shoes as per IS 17043 (Part 2):2024 is important
because it ensures that the shoes have all the needed safety, durability and quality
requirements. This category of shoes is widely employed both during the execution of our daily
tasks and in the workplace. With certification, quality management is facilitated, minimizing
chances of failure in the products. Moreover, BIS certification stipulates the standardized tests
and production processes according to the Indian Standard and Quality Control Orders (QCO).
Key Benefits of BIS Certification for Footwear
- Assures conformity to provisions outlined under BIS IS 17043 (Part 2):2024
- Offers slip-resistance, durability, bond strength, and reliability of materials used
- It is obligatory for BIS Quality Certification of Organization for making, importing, and
selling footwear in India
- Improves buying confidence through ISI Mark Certification
- Improves the acceptability of goods among retailers, institutions, and governmental
bodies
- Avoids chances of rejection, penalties and non-conformity issues
- Helps in standardizing quality in the footwear manufacturing industry
Who must obtain ISI Mark for General Purpose Shoes under
IS 17043 (Part 2): 2024?
BIS authorisation under IS 17043 (Part 2): 2024 is required for businesses involved in
manufacturing, importing, or supplying general-use footwear in India.
Applicable to:
- Manufacturers (India) - Must get BIS approval if the shoes are covered under QCO.
- Foreign Manufacturers - Need certification to export the product to India.
- Importers/Brand Owners - Must ensure that the products are BIS-certified before sale.
- Sellers/Distributors - Should only sell certified shoes.
Technical Testing Requirements for BIS Certified General Purpose Shoes
To ensure reliable performance of shoes used for general-purpose activities such as walking, daily wear, or light training, the Bureau of Indian Standards outlines the minimum requirements under IS 17043 (Part 2): 2024. This certification ensures that manufacturers meet durability standards for footwear.The BIS testing parameters and quality checks for the general purpose footwear are listed below:
| Test Group | What is Tested | Purpose |
| Footwear Design & Construction Tests | Shape, design, construction details, and assembly quality of shoes | Ensures proper structural design and overall build consistency of general-purpose footwear |
| Bonding & Adhesion Tests | Bond strength between upper, sole, midsole, and interlayer components | Ensures strong adhesion between components to prevent separation during use |
| Whole Shoe Performance Tests | Flexing performance, water resistance (if claimed), and overall shoe behaviour | Confirms footwear performs reliably under real-life walking and usage conditions |
| Slip Resistance Tests | Coefficient of friction and grip performance on different surfaces | Reduces slipping risk and improves user safety during movement |
| Durability & Abrasion Tests | Abrasion resistance of sole, upper, lining, and other components | Ensures long-lasting performance under repeated wear and friction |
| Fastener Strength Tests | Strength of straps, buckles, Velcro, eyelets, and attachments | Ensures secure fastening and reliable performance of closure systems |
| Heel & Top Piece Strength Tests | Heel pull-off strength and top piece attachment strength | Confirms stability of heel structure and attached components |
| Stitching & Seam Strength Tests | Seam strength and stitch durability in footwear upper | Ensures stitched parts withstand repeated stress without failure |
| Water Resistance & Waterproofing Tests | Water penetration resistance and waterproof performance (if claimed) | Ensures protection against water ingress in applicable footwear |
| Upper Material Strength Tests | Tear strength, breaking strength, elongation, and flexing resistance | Ensures upper materials can handle stress, bending, and stretching |
| Colour Fastness Tests | Resistance to rubbing, water, light, and perspiration | Maintains appearance and prevents colour transfer during use |
| Moisture Management Tests | Water vapour permeability, absorption, and desorption properties | Improves breathability and internal comfort of footwear |
| Insole & In-sock Performance Tests | Thickness, abrasion resistance, and moisture handling properties | Ensures cushioning comfort and hygiene inside footwear |
| Outsole Performance Tests | Flexing resistance, hydrolysis resistance, and compression set | Confirms durability and long-term performance of outsole materials |
| Midsole Performance Tests | Heat shrinkage, compression set, and split tear strength | Ensures cushioning stability and structural integrity under load |
| Toe & Counter Stiffener Tests | Hardness, resilience, moisture resistance, and shape retention | Maintains shoe shape and provides heel and toe support |
| Velcro & Elastic Tape Tests | Peel strength, shear strength, and extension limits | Ensures reliable fastening and flexibility during repeated use |
| Chemical & Safety Tests | Chemical requirements and lead content in materials | Ensures footwear materials are safe and comply with regulatory limits |
| Hydrolysis Resistance Tests | Resistance of PU-based materials to moisture degradation | Prevents material breakdown and improves product life in humid conditions |
How to get BIS ISI Mark Certification for Shoes under IS 17043:2024?
The BIS certification process ensures that general use footwear meets 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 sole bonding strength, material durability, flexibility performance and dimensional consistency.
- 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 :- BIS officials inspect the manufacturing facility to verify the production process, safety measures, and quality control system.
- Grant of BIS License :- Upon successful review and evaluation of the submitted documents, BIS grants the certification license under Scheme-I.
- Use of ISI Mark :- Once approved, the manufacturer is authorized to display the ISI mark on the product with a CM/L number, confirming that the product meets BIS standards.
Documents Checklist for IS 17043 (Part 2): 2024 License
| 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 Requirements | Agreement with AIR (Authorized Indian Representative), [Aadhaar Redacted], AIR Nomination Form, Required Undertakings, Scope of License |
The Foreign manufacturers are required to appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) in India. The person is the local point of contact for the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and handles all compliance and regulatory requirements in India.
ISI Marking Rules for General Purpose Footwear in India
Once a manufacturer obtains BIS approval, the ISI Mark for general footwear must be clearly and permanently written on its packaging or on the product. Along with the ISI Mark, essential details such as the manufacturer’s identification and licence number (CM/L) must be marked. This ensures the product complies with all safety and performance standards. Additional details are mentioned below:
| Requirement | Details |
| ISI Mark | Indicates that the product is BIS certified and conforms to standards |
| Standard Number | IS 17043 (Part 2): 2024 |
| CML Number | Certification Marks Licence (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.
BIS License Validity for General Purpose Shoes
| 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 |
| Surveillance | 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 |
BIS Approval Fee Structure for IS 17043:2024 General Purpose Shoes
The cost of a BIS license for General Purpose Footwear 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 to be paid directly to BIS-recognised labs.
- Consultancy fees may vary depending on product type and manufacturing location.
Penalties for Non-Compliance with IS 17043 (Part 2):2024 for Shoes for General Purpose
The general purpose shoes shall conform to IS 17043 (Part 2):2024 standard and get BIS certification prior to its manufacture, import and sale in India. Non-compliance to the BIS guidelines and relevant QCO regulations shall attract serious actions as provided under the BIS Act, 2016.
- Prohibition on sale or import of such shoes
- Seizure or disposal of non-conforming products
- Withholding or cancellation of BIS license or ISI marking
- Penalty provisions of BIS Act, 2016 may be enforced
- Regulatory actions may be initiated for breach of BIS regulations
Conclusion
General-purpose shoes are widely used because they offer comfort and durability. The IS 17043 (Part 2): 2024, guarantees that general purpose shoes satisfy all the required quality and safety parameters. It will help to avoid problems like sole bonding, lack of strength in materials, and early wear and tear of the products. It also ensures uniform quality across different manufacturers in the footwear industry.
BIS certification is required for manufacturers to sell shoes for general purposes in India. This also increases the product reliability, consumer confidence and market acceptance. Manufacturers can take expert help to ease the certification process. EVTL India provides complete assistance, including documentation, application filing and testing coordination. This makes the BIS approval process for the manufacturers smooth and hassle-free.
