BIS Notifies First Indian Standard for Agarbattis

In a landmark move to strengthen consumer safety and product quality, the Bureau of Indian Standards has notified India’s first-ever national standard for agarbattis. Announced on National Consumer Day 2025, the new standard, IS 19412:2025, introduces clear norms on raw materials, burning performance, fragrance quality, and chemical safety. The framework is expected to boost consumer confidence and reinforce India’s leadership as the world’s largest producer and exporter of incense sticks.

Scope and Objectives of IS 19412:2025

The newly notified standard lays down comprehensive requirements for the manufacture of agarbattis. It covers parameters such as physical integrity, uniform burning, ash formation, fragrance dispersion, and labelling norms. By defining measurable quality benchmarks, the standard aims to ensure consistency across products in the domestic market while also aligning Indian incense manufacturing with evolving global expectations on safety and sustainability.

Ban on Harmful Chemicals and Substances

A key feature of IS 19412:2025 is the prohibition of several chemicals considered harmful to human health and the environment. According to an official statement from the government, certain insecticidal compounds and synthetic fragrance intermediates have been barred due to their potential impact on indoor air quality and ecological safety. These restrictions reflect growing scientific concerns and international regulatory trends related to household air pollutants.

Official Announcement and Regulatory Push

The standard was announced by Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Pralhad Joshi. He emphasised that the initiative reinforces the government’s commitment to consumer welfare and responsible manufacturing. The standard has been notified by the Bureau of Indian Standards, which will oversee its implementation and encourage voluntary adoption by manufacturers before wider enforcement.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• IS 19412:2025 is India’s first national standard for agarbattis.
• The standard bans insecticides such as permethrin and cypermethrin in incense sticks.
• Synthetic fragrance intermediates like benzyl cyanide are prohibited.
• Bureau of Indian Standards functions under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs.

Implications for Industry and Exports

India’s agarbatti sector is expected to benefit from improved product credibility and safer manufacturing practices. The standard is likely to facilitate better access to international markets where chemical safety norms are increasingly stringent. By promoting ethical production and consumer protection, IS 19412:2025 marks a significant regulatory step in modernising a traditional industry while safeguarding public health.