In a major push toward improving road safety and protecting the lives of two-wheeler riders, the Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of India, in collaboration with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), has issued a nationwide appeal to consumers to use only BIS-certified helmets. The move comes in light of growing concerns over substandard helmets flooding Indian markets, especially in roadside and informal retail spaces.

The Growing Need for Quality Helmets

India is home to over 21 crore two-wheelers, making it imperative to prioritize rider safety. Although wearing a helmet is mandated under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, mere compliance is not enough—helmet quality plays a crucial role in providing real protection during accidents. Substandard or fake helmets offer poor shock absorption and structural integrity, increasing the risk of fatal injuries.

To curb the menace of unsafe helmets, the government issued a Quality Control Order in 2021, mandating the use of ISI-marked helmets certified under BIS Standard IS 4151:2015. As of June 2025, there are 176 helmet manufacturers across India with valid BIS licenses.

Enforcement and Crackdown on Non-Compliance

Despite regulations, a large number of non-BIS certified helmets continue to be sold, particularly through roadside vendors and informal markets. In response, BIS has ramped up its enforcement activities, including regular surveillance and sample testing across factories and markets.

In the last financial year alone:

• Over 500 helmet samples were tested by BIS laboratories.
• Over 30 search-and-seizure operations were carried out to crack down on the misuse of BIS certification marks.
• In Delhi, 2,500+ non-compliant helmets were seized from nine manufacturers operating without valid licenses.
• An additional 500 substandard helmets were confiscated from 17 retail and roadside locations, with legal action initiated.

A Nationwide Campaign for Safer Helmets

To further tighten enforcement, the Department of Consumer Affairs has written to District Collectors (DCs) and District Magistrates (DMs) across the country, urging them to take personal interest in eliminating non-compliant helmets from their jurisdictions. They were asked to integrate this drive with existing road safety campaigns for greater outreach.

BIS branch offices are actively coordinating with local police and district administrations, with particularly successful initiatives already underway in Delhi NCR and Southern India.

In one notable example, BIS Chennai recently conducted a high-impact roadshow and awareness drive, distributing BIS-certified helmets in partnership with local traffic authorities. The initiative drew strong public engagement and encouraged safer riding habits.

Empowering Consumers Through Technology

In a bid to make helmet verification easier for consumers, the BIS has enhanced its BIS Care App and online portal:

• Consumers can verify if a helmet manufacturer is BIS-licensed.
• Users can also report complaints directly through the BIS Care App.

BIS also runs the “Quality Connect” campaign, featuring Manak Mitra volunteers who engage directly with the public to raise awareness on ISI-marked products. These campaigns are being widely promoted through media, social media platforms, and partnerships with civil society organisations.

A Strong Message on Safety and Accountability

The Department of Consumer Affairs reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance policy toward substandard safety gear. It emphasized that ensuring only high-quality, BIS-certified helmets reach consumers is critical to reducing avoidable road accident fatalities.

By stepping up inspections, legal action, and public outreach, the government is not only protecting lives but also promoting a culture of quality and accountability in the manufacturing and retail sectors.

Consumers are encouraged to check ISI certification, avoid roadside purchases, and report non-compliant products, helping build a safer road ecosystem for all.