Currently, 1,376 grades of steel fall under the quality control order (QCO). The new rule, once it comes into effect, will bring 1,000 more grades of steel under the BIS norms. 

Jan 3, 2025

In order to protect domestic steel manufacturers from the adverse effects of cheap imports, as well as to improve the quality of infrastructure and assorted hardware produced in the country, the Government of India is coming up with a plan to bring all steel grades consumed in the country under strict quality control norms.

Currently, 1,376 grades of steel fall under the quality control order (QCO). The new rule, once it comes into effect, will bring 1,000 more grades of steel under the norms formulated by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).

As per an official source, the government was mulling to bring all steel grades under the BIS standards within one year. The move aimed at ensuring the quality of products as well as maintaining the competitiveness of the industry.

Also Read: Thyssenkrupp Sells Hot Dip Galvanized Plant to Spanish Network Steel

The Ministry of Steel issues QCO, which mandates that only quality steel conforming to the relevant BIS standard notified under QCO is produced in the country and imported from outside. Steel grades not yet covered by BIS standards are imported with a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Steel Ministry.