What is the new BIS Standard for incense sticks?
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Synopsis
On December 26, the government introduced a crucial new BIS Standard for incense sticks, enhancing consumer safety and environmental considerations. This initiative not only improves product quality but also aims to secure the health of users, making it a significant advancement for the incense industry in India.
Key Takeaways
- New BIS Standard enhances consumer safety.
- Prohibits harmful chemicals in agarbattis.
- Improves indoor air quality.
- Supports traditional artisans and MSMEs.
- Products can now carry the BIS Standard Mark.
New Delhi, Dec 26 (NationPress) On Friday, the government unveiled a groundbreaking BIS Standard for incense sticks (agarbatti) aimed at improving consumer safety, indoor air quality, environmental sustainability, and regulatory compliance.
Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Pralhad Joshi, introduced the “IS 19412:2025–Incense Sticks (Agarbatti)” Specification during the celebration of ‘National Consumer Day 2025’ here.
The new standard strictly prohibits specific insecticidal chemicals and synthetic fragrance materials in agarbattis that may endanger human health, indoor air quality, and the environment.
As the globe’s leading producer and exporter of agarbattis, India's industry is valued at approximately Rs 8,000 crore per year, with exports reaching around Rs 1,200 crore to over 150 nations.
This sector sustains a vast network of artisans, MSMEs, and micro-entrepreneurs, especially in rural and semi-urban regions, providing substantial job opportunities, particularly for women.
“IS 19412:2025” delineates a list of banned substances in agarbattis, including certain insecticidal chemicals like alethrin, permethrin, cypermethrin, deltamethrin, and fipronil, along with synthetic fragrance intermediates such as benzyl cyanide, ethyl acrylate, and diphenylamine.
Many of these compounds are either restricted or prohibited globally due to their potential adverse effects on human health, indoor air quality, and ecological safety.
The ministry highlighted that the emphasis on consumer safety, indoor air quality, environmental sustainability, and regulatory compliance — coupled with international constraints on specific fragrance compounds and chemicals — necessitated a dedicated Indian Standard for Agarbattis.
The standard categorizes Agarbatti into machine-made, hand-made, and traditional masala types, specifying requirements for raw materials, burning quality, fragrance performance, and chemical parameters to ensure safer products and consistent quality for consumers.
Products that meet this standard will be allowed to display the BIS Standard Mark, empowering consumers to make informed and confident choices.
The ministry stated, “The notification of IS 19412:2025 is poised to elevate consumer trust, foster ethical and sustainable manufacturing practices, safeguard traditional livelihoods, and improve global market access for Indian agarbatti products.”
Point of View
The release of the new BIS Standard for incense sticks represents a significant step forward in consumer protection and environmental responsibility. This initiative reflects the government's commitment to enhancing product safety and sustainability in India’s thriving agarbatti industry, which is vital for many small artisans and entrepreneurs.
NationPress
04/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the new BIS Standard for incense sticks entail?
The new BIS Standard, IS 19412:2025, prohibits certain harmful chemicals in incense sticks to enhance consumer safety and environmental sustainability.
How does this standard affect incense stick manufacturers?
Manufacturers must adhere to the new specifications to ensure their products are safe and can carry the BIS Standard Mark, enhancing consumer trust.
Why is this standard important for consumers?
This standard prioritizes consumer safety and indoor air quality, ensuring that products are free from harmful substances that could affect health.
What are the economic implications of this new standard?
The standard is expected to promote ethical manufacturing practices and improve global market access for Indian agarbatti products.
When was the new BIS Standard for incense sticks announced?
The new BIS Standard was announced on December 26, 2025, coinciding with National Consumer Day.
