Scheme-X Certification for machine (OTR)
What is Scheme-X Certification for machine (OTR)?
Scheme-X Certification for Off-The-Road (OTR) machines is a specialized regulatory approval process designed to ensure that heavy machinery such as excavators, backhoe loaders, dumpers, cranes, and other construction or mining equipment comply with essential safety and operational standards. This certification is typically governed by regulatory bodies like ARAI (Automotive Research Association of India) or ICAT under the framework of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules (CMVR). The primary purpose of Scheme-X Certification is to confirm that such equipment meets specific construction, functional, and sometimes emission-related norms, even though these machines are not intended for regular road use.
The Omnibus Technical Regulation (OTR), 2024 is a new safety regulation introduced by the Ministry of Heavy Industries to ensure that all types of machinery and electrical equipment — including their assemblies, components, and parts — meet specific safety and quality standards before being placed in the Indian market. This regulation is closely linked to the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and specifically falls under Scheme X Certification, which is designed for high-risk products that require a more detailed compliance process. Under Scheme X, manufacturers must go through rigorous testing, factory inspections, and ongoing monitoring to ensure that their products consistently meet the required Indian standards. The goal is to enhance consumer safety, promote quality manufacturing, and align with global best practices. The OTR serves as the framework that mandates this certification, making BIS Scheme X a legal requirement for covered products from August 28, 2025 onwards.
Benefits of Scheme-X Certification for machine (OTR)
Ensures Product Safety & Quality
Certification guarantees that your machinery or electrical equipment meets strict Indian safety and quality standards, reducing the risk of malfunction, accidents, or legal liabilities.
Legal Compliance
From August 28, 2025, certification becomes mandatory for covered products. Being certified helps you stay compliant with government regulations and avoid penalties or product bans.
Builds Customer Trust
BIS certification is a mark of credibility. It reassures customers, suppliers, and partners that your products are tested, reliable, and meet national standards.
Competitive Advantage
Certified products stand out in the market, especially when competing with uncertified or imported alternatives. It becomes a unique selling point (USP) for your business.
Improves Market Access
Certification makes it easier to sell your products across India, and in some cases, also boosts acceptance in international markets that recognize Indian standards.
Supports Participation in Government Projects
Many government contracts or tenders require certified products. BIS certification under OTR allows you to participate in such opportunities confidently.
Reduces Risk of Product Recalls
With products undergoing mandatory testing and inspection, the chances of faults, failures, and costly recalls are significantly minimized.
Drives Continuous Improvement
Regular audits and surveillance by BIS push manufacturers to maintain and improve quality standards over time, leading to better overall performance.
Boosts Brand Reputation
Being a certified brand adds professionalism and enhances your company’s reputation among customers, distributors, and business partners.
Who can apply for Scheme-X Certification for machine (OTR)?
Indian Manufacturers
Foreign Manufacturers (for Indian Market)
OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers)
Importers (in some cases)
Contract Manufacturers / Third-Party Manufacturers
Automotive electronics
Cable manufacturers
Lighting companies
Documents Required for Scheme-X Certification for machine (OTR)
- System Manual
- System Procedure
- Policy
- Objectives
- Mission & Vision
- Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)
- Checklist
- Forms
- Formats
- Records
The extent of Documented Information differs as per:
- Organization’s size
- Activities performed by the organization
- Processes undertaken by the Organization
- Products and services offered by the organization
- The complexity of processes undertaken
- Competence of persons involved
Role of Shamkris and Process of Scheme-X Certification for machine (OTR)
Shamkris adopts a results-oriented approach to effective system implementation in the organization. A simple and practical method of system implementation helps organizations increase business efficiency and sustainability. Shamkris supports 100% documentation to obtain an accreditation body of success in addition to enhanced performance.
The implementation process is described below:
Time Frame
Task
Process
Day 1
GAP Analysis
Certification Body
Selection
Cost Estimates
- Finding the GAP between existing system related to (MCLS) Certificate requirements
- Selecting the appropriate certification Body
- Based on the scope of your business & certification Body you choose
Week 1
Developing Documents
- Management System Manual, Management System Procedures, Policy, Objectives, Forms etc.
- Review of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)
Week 4
Implementing Management System
- (MCLS) Certificate Awareness training for the top management and staff
- Implementing a well-documented management system throughout the organization
Week 8
Internal Audit
MRM
CAPA
- Internal audits identifying nonconformities related to (MCLS) Certificate requirements
- Management Review Meetings
- Corrective and Preventive Action plan for nonconformities
Week 10
Self Certification/NoBo
Audit
N-C Closing
- Shamkris acts on your behalf and assists you in the third-party audit
- Closing of any nonconformities identified by the certification Body
Week 12
Self Certification/NoBo
- Certificates issued under have a validity period as
- Initial Certification: Valid for One time Approval from the date of qualification.
- Surveillance Audits yearly
Year on Year
Yearly Compliance
- Support of Yearly documentation for audit
Who can issue the Scheme-X Certification for machine (OTR)
FAQ
The OTR is a regulation issued by the Ministry of Heavy Industries to ensure the safety and compliance of machinery and electrical equipment, including their assemblies, sub-assemblies, and components, as per BIS Scheme X.
The OTR will be enforced from August 28, 2025.
The OTR covers all types of machinery and electrical equipment, including components, sub-assemblies, and assemblies, unless specifically exempted.
Yes, certain products are exempt, including:
- Machinery or components covered under other BIS orders.
- Domestic products meant only for export.
- Construction equipment regulated by the CMVR Rule 1989 of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH).
The OTR mandates that machinery and electrical equipment falling under its scope must comply with BIS Scheme X Certification, which ensures that products meet safety and quality standards set by the Bureau of Indian Standards.
Manufacturers, both domestic and foreign, whose products fall under the OTR regulations will need to comply with BIS Scheme X. This includes OEMs, importers, and third-party manufacturers.
Starting August 28, 2025, any non-compliant products will not be allowed for sale in India, and manufacturers could face penalties.
Yes, foreign manufacturers who wish to sell machinery or electrical equipment in India must comply with the OTR by getting BIS Scheme X Certification, either directly or through an Authorized Indian Representative.
Yes, the OTR also covers low voltage switchgear and control gear as notified by the Ministry of Heavy Industries.
The OTR helps ensure that all machinery and electrical equipment sold in India are safe, reliable, and meet national standards, thereby protecting consumers and improving overall product quality in the market.