On 11 February 2026, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), through its Central Marks Department-2 (CMD-2), released official guidelines for implementing the revised IS 9873 (Part 1):2025 standard for Safety of Toys – Mechanical and Physical Properties.

These guidelines have come into effect immediately and provide clear direction on how manufacturers, importers, and existing licence holders should transition from IS 9873 (Part 1):2019 to the updated 2025 version. The revision is part of BIS’s ongoing effort to strengthen toy safety in India and align national standards with the international ISO 8124-1 standard.

Revision of IS 9873 (Part 1):2019

The earlier standard, IS 9873 (Part 1):2019, has now been officially replaced by IS 9873 (Part 1):2025. However, Bureau of Indian Standards has provided a transition period to ensure a smooth shift.

• The 2019 version will remain valid until 22 March 2027
• After this date, no licence will be granted under the old standard

To avoid confusion and ensure structured implementation, BIS has issued clear instructions for:

• Existing licensees
• New applicants
• Applicants seeking change in scope

This approach ensures a seamless transition for all stakeholders.

Key Updates in IS 9873 (Part 1):2025

The revised standard introduces several important improvements aimed at enhancing safety and clarity:

1. Labelling and Safety Clarifications

• Relaxation in labelling requirements for fixed loops and nooses
• Clear guidance on warning placement for:
  • Toys with electrical cables
  • Roller skates and skateboards
  • Functional toys

2. Expanded Coverage

• Inclusion of toys designed to be attached or suspended over cots and cradles

3. Strengthened Testing Requirements

• Enhanced testing for toys with folding mechanisms
• Inclusion of reasonably foreseeable abuse testing

4. Speed Limits for Ride-On Toys

• Up to 8 km/h for children below 3 years
• Up to 12 km/h for children aged 3–6 years
• Up to 16 km/h for children above 6 years

5. Sound Level Relaxation

• Permissible sound limit increased from 85 dB to 94 dB for pull and push toys

Overall, these updates improve child safety while making compliance more practical and aligned with global standards.

Transition for Existing Licensees

The transition process for current BIS licence holders has been designed to be straightforward.

• No fresh test reports are required where changes are:
  • Editorial
  • Labelling-related
  • Relaxations
• In such cases, licence holders only need to submit an undertaking confirming compliance with the revised standard

When Additional Testing is Required:

• Folding toys with safety stops or locking devices
• Specific cases where updated compliance is necessary

Additional Provision:

• Manufacturers of electrically driven ride-on toys can apply for inclusion of new speed categories as per applicable guidelines

Deadline: All existing licensees must transition to IS 9873 (Part 1):2025 by 22 March 2027

Guidelines for New Applicants

New applicants have flexibility during the transition period:

• Applications under IS 9873 (Part 1):2019 are allowed only until 21 March 2027
• No licence will be granted under the old standard after 22 March 2027

Applicants can also choose to directly apply under the revised 2025 standard by submitting the required declaration.

Scope Change Applications

Applications for change in scope will follow the same process as new applications:

• Processing under the old standard is allowed only until the withdrawal date
• Early transition to the revised standard is recommended

Implementation Date of Revised Standard

The guidelines are effective immediately.

BIS has directed its branch offices to ensure:

• No licence remains active under the 2019 standard after 22 March 2027
• Surveillance inspections are conducted within 30 days after a licensee transitions to the revised standard

Conclusion

The introduction of IS 9873 (Part 1):2025 reflects the Bureau of Indian Standards’ commitment to improving toy safety and aligning Indian regulations with global benchmarks.

Although the transition period extends until March 2027, proactive compliance will help businesses avoid delays, regulatory risks and disruptions.

For assistance with BIS certification, transition to the revised standard, or scope updates for toy products, GYE LLP can support you throughout the process as your trusted BIS consultancy partner in India.