Govt of India: Only BIS certified two-wheeler helmets can be manufactured and sold in the country
In an effort to curb the manufacture and sale of low-cost helmets in the country, the Indian government has made it mandatory for two-wheeler helmets to have BIS certification, for them to be manufactured and sold in the country. The official statement mentions, "The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways through S.O. 4252 (E) dated 26th November 2020 has issued the 'Helmet for riders of Two Wheelers Motor Vehicles (Quality Control ) Order, 2020.' Protective Helmets for Two Wheeler Riders have been included under compulsory BIS certification and the publication of the Quality Control Order"
The Indian Supreme Court had directed a committee to be formed and also enquire on the possibility of lighter helmets in the country, considering the climatic conditions of India, also making them suitable for every rider to wear helmets. This experts in this committee belong to different fields, with a medical background from AIIMS, engineering background and also members from BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards). Earlier this year, the committee made a detailed analysis which accepted SC's suggestion and recommended lighter helmets to the ministry, which received approval from the ministry as well. The lighter helmets which will be manufactured and sold in India will have to abide by the updated specifications mentioned by the BIS. The Government believes with numerous players in the market, the competition will help the manufacturer develop a good quality and lighter helmets that will benefit the two-wheeler riders.
It is said that the Indian two-wheeler helmet market stands at 1.7 crore units that are sold annually. The Indian Government's latest measure on the manufacture and sale of BIS helmets has also been welcomed by The International Road Federation.