New BIS Registration Requirements for Standalone Hard Disk Drives in India

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Dated: 13.06.2026

New BIS Registration Requirements for Standalone Hard Disk Drives in India

The Indian government has recently introduced significant regulatory changes concerning the registration and standards for standalone hard disk drives (HDDs). These amendments, issued by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and the Ministry of Finance, are set to impact manufacturers, importers, and distributors of HDDs across the country. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the new requirements and their implications.

Background: The Compulsory Registration Order

The “Electronics and Information Technology Goods (Requirements for Compulsory Registration) Order, 2021” was established to ensure that electronic goods sold in India meet specific safety and quality standards. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) oversees this process, requiring certain products to be registered and certified before they can be marketed.

Key Amendment: Inclusion of Standalone Hard Disk Drives

On May 5, 2026, MeitY issued Notification S.O. 2204(E), amending the 2021 Order. The main change is the substitution of the entry at Serial No. 50 in the Schedule, which now specifically lists “Standalone Hard Disk Drives” as a regulated category. The relevant Indian Standard for these products is IS 13252: Part 1: 2010, titled “Information technology equipment – safety part 1 general requirements.”

What Are Standalone Hard Disk Drives?

Standalone HDDs refer to hard disk drives that operate independently and are not integrated within other devices. This includes internal HDDs sold separately for use in computers, servers, and other IT equipment.

Differentiation: USB Type External HDDs vs. Other Standalone HDDs

The notification clarifies that USB Type External Hard Disk Drives will continue to be governed by the existing notified provisions. However, for all other standalone HDDs, the new compulsory registration requirements will apply starting November 5, 2026.

Summary Table of Regulatory Requirements

S. No	Goods or Articles	Indian Standard	Title of Indian Standard
50	Standalone Hard Disk Drives	IS 13252: Part 1: 2010	Information technology equipment – safety part 1 general requirements

Implementation and Compliance

All manufacturers, importers, and distributors of standalone HDDs (excluding USB Type External HDDs) must ensure their products comply with the BIS registration requirements by November 5, 2026. This involves:

Product Testing: Ensuring products are tested as per IS 13252: Part 1: 2010.
BIS Registration: Submitting applications and obtaining BIS certification before products are imported or sold in India.
Labeling: Marking products with the appropriate BIS registration number and compliance information.

Action Points for Stakeholders

Manufacturers: Review product lines to identify affected HDD models and initiate the BIS registration process.
Importers/Distributors: Verify that all standalone HDDs (except USB Type External HDDs) are BIS certified before import or sale.
Customs and Enforcement: Authorities are directed to sensitize officers and ensure compliance at ports of entry and in the market.

Timeline

Notification Date: May 5, 2026
Effective Date for New Requirements: November 5, 2026

Conclusion

These regulatory changes are aimed at enhancing the safety and quality of standalone hard disk drives available in the Indian market. Stakeholders should act promptly to ensure compliance and avoid disruptions in supply or enforcement actions.

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Source: CBIC, Ministry of Finance, Govt. of India

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