This appeal comes amid increasing concerns over the widespread sale of non-compliant helmets and follows a series of enforcement actions by the BIS and the Department of Consumer Affairs, according to an official statement.
In FY25, BIS conducted over 30 search-and-seizure operations and tested more than 500 helmet samples. In a major crackdown in Delhi, authorities seized over 2,500 non-compliant helmets from nine manufacturers whose BIS licences were either expired or cancelled. Additional operations across 17 roadside and retail outlets led to the confiscation of around 500 more substandard helmets, with legal action underway.
With over 21 crore two-wheelers on Indian roads, the Department stressed that helmet quality is as critical as helmet usage. Under a Quality Control Order in force since 2021, helmets for two-wheeler riders must meet BIS standards (IS 4151:2015) and carry the ISI mark. There are currently 176 BIS-certified helmet manufacturers in India.
Despite these regulations, roadside vendors continue to sell uncertified helmets, posing significant safety risks. The Department has called for stricter enforcement and launched a nationwide campaign through District Collectors and Magistrates to clamp down on non-compliant helmet sales. The campaign, already seeing positive results in the Delhi NCR region, is being expanded nationwide.
As part of the awareness drive, BIS has collaborated with traffic authorities and civil society groups. Earlier this year, a campaign in Chennai featured the distribution of ISI-marked helmets and roadshows to educate the public on helmet safety standards.
To empower consumers, the BIS Care App and BIS portal now allow users to verify manufacturers’ certification status and lodge complaints. BIS has also deployed “Manak Mitra” volunteers under its Quality Connect initiative to spread awareness about mandatory helmet certification.
