Audio, Video and Similar Electronic Apparatus – Safety Requirements
Electronic Games (Video)
Strategic Recommendations for IS 616 (Electronic Games – Video)
- Engage Early with BIS & Labs
Apply for CRS registration under IS 616:2017 without delay. Get gaming devices tested in BIS-recognized labs for electrical safety and compliance.
- Partner with Compliance Experts
Work with ERA compliance specialists for application filing, product testing, and BIS liaison to avoid delays.
- Contact ERA Support Team
📧 cs@eraglobal.co.in | 📞 +91 9599296331 | 💬 WhatsApp
Support for BIS registration, documentation, and guidance on CRS transition from 2013 to 2021.
- Track Notifications & Circulars
Subscribe to ERA’s newsletter for regular updates on CRS amendments, BIS guidelines, and deadlines.
- Do a Gap Assessment
Review current gaming device specifications against IS 616:2017. Identify safety or documentation gaps and correct them before filing.
| Section | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Electronic Games (Video) |
| Applicable Indian Standard (IS) No. | IS 616:2017 |
| Title of Indian Standard | Audio, Video and Similar Electronic Apparatus – Safety Requirements |
| Quality Control Order | Electronics and Information Technology Goods (Requirement of Compulsory Registration) Orders, 2012/2013 (CRS 2013) and 2021 (CRS 2021) |
| Notification & Amendments | CRS 2013: Electronics & IT Goods CRS Order, 2012 (amended 2013) CRS 2021: Notified via S.O. 1248(E) dated 18 March 2021 |
| Final Enforcement Date | 18 September 2021 (six months from CRS 2021 notification) |
| Objective & Scope | To ensure electrical safety, reduce risks of fire, shock, or overheating, and align gaming devices with international safety norms. |
| Products Covered | Electronic video gaming consoles, handheld devices, and similar electronic entertainment apparatus. |
| Exemptions | Export-only products, R&D prototypes, and government-notified exemptions. |
| Industries Impacted | Consumer electronics, gaming device manufacturers, global console brands (PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo), importers, distributors, and retailers. |
| Mandatory Compliance | - Conform to IS 616:2017 - BIS registration under Scheme-II (CRS) mandatory - BIS Standard Mark with registration number required before sale/import |
| Next Steps for Stakeholders | Conduct BIS-recognized lab testing for safety, apply for CRS registration, update labels/packaging with BIS Standard Mark, ensure renewal under CRS 2021. |
| Legal Framework Provision & Enforcement | Enforced under BIS Act, 2016 (Sections 16(1),(2), and 25(3)) by BIS with assistance from MeitY and State authorities. |
| Penalties for Non-Compliance | Seizure of non-compliant goods, suspension/cancellation of license, fines, and imprisonment up to 2 years or both. |
| Conclusion | From 18 September 2021, all Electronic Games (Video) must comply with IS 616 under CRS 2021. CRS 2013 registrations remain valid only until renewal, after which migration to CRS 2021 is mandatory. |
| References / Annexures | - CRS Order, 2012/2013 - CRS Order, 2021 (S.O. 1248(E), 18 March 2021) |
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Notification
Electronic Games (Video) are regulated under the Electronics and IT Goods CRS Orders, first introduced in 2012/2013 and later updated via CRS 2021 (S.O. 1248(E), dated 18 March 2021). This order, issued under the BIS Act, 2016, mandates compliance with IS 616:2017. CRS 2021 became enforceable from 18 September 2021.
Overview
The CRS Orders ensure that only safe, BIS-certified gaming devices are sold in India. Compliance with IS 616 protects consumers from electrical hazards such as shock, fire, and overheating.
Objective & Scope
The standard aims to safeguard users by prescribing safety and performance requirements for electronic video games and related entertainment apparatus. It ensures that devices meet international safety benchmarks.
Products Covered
The scope covers electronic video gaming consoles, handheld devices, and similar entertainment systems intended for consumer use in India.
Exemptions Provided
- Export-only units,
- R&D prototypes or development samples,
- Products exempted under government notification.
Industries Impacted
Gaming console manufacturers, consumer electronics companies, importers, distributors, and retailers of electronic games are directly impacted.
Mandatory Compliance Requirements
From 18 September 2021, all covered products must:
- Conform to IS 616:2017.
- Obtain BIS registration under Scheme-II (Compulsory Registration Scheme).
Carry the BIS Standard Mark with registration number before being sold or imported
Enforcement Timeline
- CRS 2013 introduced coverage of Electronic Games (Video).
- CRS 2021 issued on 18 March 2021.
- Enforced from 18 September 2021.
- CRS 2013 registrations remain valid only until renewal, after which CRS 2021 applies.
Legal Provisions, Enforcement & Penalties
The BIS Act, 2016 empowers BIS to inspect facilities, draw samples, and seize non-compliant goods. Non-compliance may result in seizure of stock, suspension or cancellation of license, fines, and imprisonment up to 2 years, or both. Enforcement is carried out by BIS with support from MeitY and state authorities.
Conclusion
Since 18 September 2021, BIS certification under CRS 2021 has been mandatory for all Electronic Games (Video). Stakeholders must ensure compliance with IS 616:2017 to legally manufacture, import, and sell such products in India.
Ready to start your certification journey?
Let us help you navigate regulatory challenges and achieve certification with ease. Leave us your details, and we’ll get back to you—or request a free consultation today.