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- BIS Certification for Agro-Textiles Laminated Woven Orchard Protection Covers ensures compliance with IS 17731:2021 for strength, weather protection, and durability.
- ISI Mark is mandatory for manufacturers and importers to sell or supply in India.
- Diligence Certification offers end-to-end support – product testing, documentation, and BIS licence renewal.
Introduction
Earlier this year, a Pune-based agro-textile manufacturer faced a significant setback when their tender for orchard protection materials was rejected by a state horticulture department. The reason was not product quality — it was the absence of BIS Certification under IS 17731:2021 for Laminated Woven Orchard Protection Covers.
Similar incidents are reported throughout India as agro-textile manufacturers recognize that the BIS Quality Control Order (QCO) has made the ISI mark mandatory for laminated woven protective covers – widespread products made for use in fruit orchards, vineyards, and nurseries to protect crops from sun, rain, and wind.
According to the new BIS rules, only ISI-marked agro-textiles conforming to IS 17731:2021 can be made, imported or sold in India. Certification of conformance attests that the materials used meet standards for safety, strength, and durability in the environment – core requirements to support the growing agri-tech ecosystem in India.
What is IS 17731:2021?
According to the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), IS 17731:2021 has been published which ‘specifies the technical and performance specifications for Laminated Woven Agro Textile Covers for the Protection of Orchards’. This standard is designed to ensure materials are suitable for protecting crops for predicted environmental conditions including UV tolerance, tensile strength and waterproof capabilities. This standard includes information on design, construction, lamination quality, and test procedure of all woven polymeric fabrics for agricultural protection.
The aims of IS 17731:2021 is to ensure consistency, reliability, and safety in the manufacture of agr-textiles utilized in orchards and agriculture throughout India.
Key Provisions of IS 17731:2021
1. Material Requirements
- The base fabric must be woven from virgin polypropylene or polyethylene tapes, ensuring non-toxic, food-safe properties.
- The lamination film must be UV-stabilized, offering long-term weather resistance and protection from sunlight degradation.
- The material must not release harmful chemicals when exposed to sunlight or moisture.
2. Design & Construction
- The cover should be uniformly laminated on one or both sides of the woven fabric, ensuring complete sealing against water ingress.
- The product is required to maintain a specific GSM (grams per square meter) range and tensile strength values, as defined in the standard.
- Edges must be properly sealed or hemmed to prevent fraying.
3. Performance & Mechanical Strength
- The agro-textile cover must pass rigorous tests for tear resistance, tensile strength, bursting pressure, and dimensional stability.
- It must withstand UV exposure equivalent to 500 hours of simulated sunlight without significant degradation.
- The cover must maintain its integrity after repeated exposure to rain and temperature variations.
4. Endurance & Weather Testing
- Weather-resistance tests simulate field conditions of high humidity, rainfall, and UV radiation.
- The laminated layer must remain intact and flexible even after prolonged exposure.
5. Marking & Identification
Every BIS-certified orchard protection cover must display:
- The ISI mark,
- The manufacturer’s name or code,
- The batch number and GSM value, and
- The standard reference (IS 17731:2021).
This ensures easy traceability, consumer trust, and regulatory compliance.
Why bis-certification-for-agro-textiles Matters
1. Legal Compliance
According to the BIS Act, 2016 and following Quality Control Orders, every laminated woven orchard protection cover requires BIS Certification under IS 17731:2021 to sale in India.
Neglecting this regulation could result in the product being seized, fines, and being ineligible for government tenders.
2. Product Performance and Safety
Certification verifies that every batch of agro-textile covers meets critical quality levels for tensile strength, UV stability and lamination durability, making it unlikely to fail in the difficult farm environment.
3. Market and Tender Eligibility
Only BIS-certified manufacturers can supply to government departments such as the National Horticulture Board, ICAR, and State Agriculture Departments. Certification opens access to large institutional buyers and export markets.
4. Global Recognition
The ISI mark signals adherence to India’s most trusted quality system. For exporters, it acts as a credible assurance of performance and safety, facilitating easier acceptance in international markets.
5. Brand Credibility
For farmers and dealers, the ISI mark builds confidence that the product is reliable, weather-resistant, and backed by verified testing standards.
Understanding the bis-certification-for-agro-textiles
The ISI mark signifies that the agro-textile product complies with all requirements of IS 17731:2021 and has undergone successful testing by a BIS-recognized laboratory.
Manufacturers holding this licence undergo regular factory inspections by BIS officials to maintain quality consistency. Any deviation can result in suspension or withdrawal of the licence.
From a customer’s viewpoint, the ISI-marked laminated orchard cover guarantees that:
- The product will withstand extreme temperatures and UV exposure.
- It provides adequate protection for orchards and greenhouses.
- It meets environmental safety norms.
Importance and Benefits of BIS Certification
| Benefit | Description |
| Legal Compliance | Mandatory under BIS QCO and BIS Act, 2016. |
| Product Safety | Ensures tensile strength, UV resistance, and long-term field durability. |
| Market Access | Required for participation in government tenders and PSU supply contracts. |
| Customer Confidence | Builds trust through consistent quality and performance. |
| Export Advantage | Recognized globally, easing international market approvals. |
| Avoids Penalties | Protects against legal actions, fines, or product bans. |
| Supports Make in India | Strengthens domestic manufacturing competitiveness. |
Eligibility Criteria for BIS Certification
To apply for BIS Certification under IS 17731:2021, the manufacturer must:
- Be a legally registered business entity (Company, LLP, or Proprietorship).
- Operate a functional manufacturing unit for agro-textiles or laminated fabrics.
- Maintain an in-house quality control laboratory with testing equipment for tensile strength, UV exposure, and GSM measurement.
- Employ qualified technical staff for product testing and quality assurance.
- Allow BIS officers to inspect the plant and testing facilities.
- Submit product samples for testing to a BIS-approved laboratory.
Foreign manufacturers can apply through their Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) as per BIS guidelines.
Step-by-Step BIS Certification Process
- Identify the Standard
Confirm that your product falls under IS 17731:2021 and qualifies as an “Agro-Textile Laminated Woven Orchard Protection Cover.” - Online Application
Register on the Manak Online BIS Portal and fill out the application form with company, factory, and product details. - Product Testing
Send samples to a BIS-recognized laboratory for physical, mechanical, and UV-resistance tests. - Factory Inspection
BIS officials visit your facility to inspect equipment, production setup, and quality control systems. - Evaluation of Results
BIS reviews both lab test reports and factory inspection findings to verify compliance. - Grant of Licence (GoL)
Once conformity is established, BIS issues a licence to use the ISI mark on approved products. - Renewal
The licence is valid for two years and must be renewed periodically with updated documentation and test results.
Documents Required for BIS Certification
| Category | Documents Required |
| Company Documents | Incorporation Certificate, GST, MSME/Udyam Registration |
| Factory Details | Layout Plan, Machinery List, Manufacturing Process Flow |
| Quality Management | Internal test records, calibration certificates, quality manual |
| Testing Reports | Laboratory test report confirming compliance with IS 17731:2021 |
| Technical Specifications | Fabric GSM data, lamination type, UV stabilization details |
Proper documentation and early testing preparation help avoid delays in approval.
Validity and Renewal of BIS Licence
| Aspect | Details |
| Initial Validity | 2 years from issue date |
| Renewal Period | Up to 5 years based on continued compliance |
| Renewal Application | At least 3 months before expiry |
| Requirements | Updated test report, production data, renewal fee |
| Inspection During Renewal | BIS may re-evaluate manufacturing facility |
Timely renewal ensures uninterrupted compliance and eligibility for supply contracts.
Common Challenges During BIS Certification
- Incomplete Application: Missing factory or test information delays approval.
- Product Non-Conformance: Failing UV or tensile strength tests leads to re-testing.
- Documentation Gaps: Absence of calibration or internal QC records causes rejection.
- Inspection Readiness: Poor factory readiness can delay licence issuance.
- Renewal Neglect: Missing renewal deadlines results in suspension.
- Lack of Expertise: Misinterpretation of IS 17731:2021 clauses is a common cause of failure.
Partnering with an experienced BIS Certification Consultant like Diligence Certification ensures smooth coordination, accurate documentation, and faster approval.
Cost of BIS Certification
| Component | Details |
| Application Fee | Payable during online submission |
| Testing Fee | Depends on sample size and test type (UV, tensile, tear, etc.) |
| Inspection Fee | Covers BIS officer’s visit and evaluation |
| Licence Fee | Based on product category and factory output |
| Renewal Fee | Payable every two years to maintain validity |
Costs may vary depending on production scale, number of products, and testing complexity.
Why Choose Diligence Certification
Diligence Certification is one of India’s most trusted BIS Certification Agencies, offering complete assistance under IS 17731:2021(bis certification for agro textiles).
Expert Guidance
Our consultants manage every step — from documentation and testing coordination to licence renewal.
Fast Processing
We maintain partnerships with BIS-recognized laboratories, enabling faster test turnaround and certification timelines.
Accurate Documentation
Our compliance specialists prepare factory dossiers, technical files, and test data precisely as per BIS standards.
Technical Support
Engineers on our team pre-check design and UV data to eliminate rejections during testing.
Trusted by Industry
Leading agro-textile manufacturers rely on Diligence Certification for smooth BIS approvals.
Post-Certification Assistance
We help clients manage renewals, model inclusions, and factory audits effectively.
Conclusion
Obtaining bis-certification-for-agro-textiles (IS 17731:2021) is more than just a legal requirement — it’s a mark of quality and credibility.
For manufacturers, the ISI mark opens access to government tenders, export opportunities, and customer trust.
With Diligence Certification, you receive expert support from application to final audit, ensuring compliance and faster market access.
Contact Diligence Certification today to make your agro-textile protection covers BIS-certified — a step towards quality, safety, and growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is BIS Certification for Agro Textiles?
It confirms that agrotextile products comply with IS 17731:2021 and are safe and good quality.
Is BIS Certification mandatory for orchard protection covers?
Yes, it is mandatory under the BIS Quality Control Order (QCO).
What standard applies to laminated woven orchard covers?
IS 17731:2021 applies to laminated woven agro-textile covers.
Who issues BIS Certification in India?
It is issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
What tests are required to achieve BIS Certification?
Tests include UV resistance, tensile strength, and durability.
How long is a BIS licence valid?
It is valid for 2 years and is renewable.
Can foreign manufacturers apply for BIS Certification?
Yes, foreigners can apply for certification through an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR).
What documents are needed to apply for BIS?
A certificate of the company/factory and product testing documents.
What happens if I do not have BIS certification?
If you do not have BIS certification, you may face penalties, product seizure in customs or when trying to sell the product, or rejection of your product from tenders.
How can Diligence Certification facilitate the application for BIS Certification?
Diligence Certification can help to facilitate the process to get the paperwork completed and manage product testing to create a quicker application process for your business.
