Government to Relax Quality Control Orders for Standard Certification on 55 Steel Types

The Ministry of Steel is preparing to suspend a set of quality control orders covering 55 BIS-certified steel grades, aiming to ease material sourcing challenges faced by key manufacturing sectors.  

The move follows recommendations from a high-level committee examining industry concerns over supply shortages. 

Suspension of BIS Standards and Expected Industry Impact 

According to the news reports, 42 standards are likely to be suspended for three years and 13 for one year, with a formal notification expected soon. The ministry will also reassess the suspension each year.  

The relaxation will enable industries to import specific steel grades from non-licensed suppliers or use non-BIS-compliant material where domestic output is limited. These grades are widely used in the automobile and electrical equipment sectors, where specialised inputs are often in short supply. 

Additional Reviews and Policy Considerations 

Another 15 standards will be reviewed by an inter-ministerial group to determine whether further suspensions are needed. While several QCOs may be eased, standards linked to defence and atomic energy are expected to remain in force. Over 151 QCOs have been implemented in recent years to curb inflows of non-compliant steel, including restrictions announced in June.  

A recent NITI Aayog committee meeting with industry representatives highlighted the need for temporary relief to ensure availability of grades not produced domestically or where capacity falls short of demand. 

Read More: Tata Steel Acquires Remaining 50% Stake in Tata BlueScope Steel for ₹1,100 Crore! 

Conclusion 

The proposed suspension of QCOs is set to provide manufacturers with greater sourcing flexibility as the government adjusts its approach to align with industry requirements and supply realities. 

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