India’s Toy Safety Standards: Leading the World

How India’s Strict Toy Safety Rules Are Driving Growth

India has put in place some of the world’s strictest toy safety standards. These rules have led to fewer customer complaints. They have also helped local toy makers grow their businesses and increase exports. This is according to the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).

Indian Standards: A Cut Above the Rest

Adbhut Singh, Director of BIS, says that Indian norms are better than global ones. They are designed with local weather and usage patterns in mind. Indian standards are stricter than global benchmarks like ISO and IEC. This is true for chemical, physical, and electrical safety.

Singh states, “Indian standards on toys are better than global standards.” He notes that these standards have helped both local and overseas sales. The rules are enforced through the Toys (Quality Control) Order, 2020. All toys sold in India must meet seven Indian standards. They must also carry the ISI mark.

Ensuring Toy Safety

The order has been in force since January 1, 2021. Non-compliant toys cannot be made, stored, sold, or even shown. BIS certification ensures toys are safe. They must be free from choking hazards, sharp edges, and toxic materials like lead or phthalates.

Singh explains, “For instance, a plastic toy car must comply with chemical safety. It must also meet mechanical strength and edge sharpness norms.”

More Certified Toy Makers

As of now, 1,640 toy manufacturers in India are BIS-certified. This includes:

• 1,165 for non-electronic toys
• 475 for electric toys

A Fair Field and New Ideas

Moiz Gabajiwala, CEO of Zephyr Toymakers Pvt Ltd, says the standards have created a fair playing field. They have also encouraged innovation. “Our turnover rose a lot after BIS norms came in. We posted Rs 25 crore last fiscal. We target 20% growth in 2025-26,” he said.

Zephyr makes 1–1.5 lakh toys a month. They have over 100 varieties. They use 99% locally sourced materials.

Helping Small Businesses

BIS has offered initial testing relaxations for small and micro units. They now provide ongoing training in quality control and compliance. Singh says these efforts have led to “significant improvements in product safety.” There are fewer customer complaints.

India’s Toy Exports

India’s toy exports were $152.34 million in 2023–24. This is a slight dip from $153.89 million the year before. This is according to a GTRI report.