BIS Certification Consultancy for Jute Agro Textiles for Growth of Plants and Suppression of Weeds | IS 17070:2019
BIS Certification for Jute Agro Textiles for Growth of Plants and Suppression of Weeds IS 17070:2019
Jute agrotextiles are sustainable textile products used in agriculture and horticulture to support plant growth and suppress unwanted weed growth. Manufactured from jute fibre, these materials can provide ground coverage while allowing water and air to pass through, subject to their construction and specified performance.
To ensure consistent quality and performance, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has established
IS 17070:2019 — Jute Agrotextiles for Growth of Plants and Suppression of Weeds — Specification. The standard is included in the BIS Scheme-I product certification framework and is covered by the Agro Textiles Quality Control Order. <Cite refs={["turn879879search24","turn879879search1"]}/>
Manufacturers, importers and businesses supplying jute agrotextiles in India should understand the applicable standard, testing requirements, factory quality controls and BIS licensing procedure.
Qualitance India provides consultancy support for BIS certification, documentation, testing coordination, factory readiness and regulatory compliance.
1. What Are Jute Agrotextiles?
Jute agrotextiles are textile materials manufactured from jute fibre for agricultural and horticultural applications. They can be used as ground-covering materials to help suppress weed growth while supporting the growing environment around plants.
Depending on the product design and application, jute agrotextiles may help with:
- Suppression of unwanted weed growth
- Ground coverage around plants and crops
- Water movement through the textile
- Air exchange through the textile structure
- Supporting sustainable agricultural and horticultural practices
- Reducing dependence on certain synthetic ground-covering materials
Jute is a natural fibre, and jute agrotextiles can offer a biodegradable alternative to some synthetic products. Actual biodegradation behaviour and service life depend on the material, construction and environmental conditions. <Cite refs={["turn879879search25","turn879879search8"]}/>
2. Which Indian Standard Applies to Jute Agrotextiles?
The applicable Indian Standard is:
IS 17070:2019 — Jute Agrotextiles for Growth of Plants and Suppression of Weeds.
BIS published Product Manual
PM/17070/1 in April 2023 to guide certification under Scheme-I. The manual identifies the product as IS 17070:2019 and lists no amendments in that edition. It also defines the product types and sampling guidance for certification. <Cite refs={["turn400900view0"]}/>
The standard addresses product performance characteristics relevant to the use of jute agrotextiles for plant growth and weed suppression.
Manufacturers should verify the latest applicable standard, amendments and product manual before submitting an application.
Official references:
3. Is BIS Certification Mandatory for Jute Agrotextiles?
Jute agrotextiles for growth of plants and suppression of weeds are listed under the BIS Scheme-I compulsory certification framework. The applicable regulatory framework is the
Agro Textiles (Quality Control) Order, 2023, along with its amendments. <Cite refs={["turn879879search1","turn879879search2"]}/>
Manufacturers supplying products covered by the QCO must comply with the applicable Indian Standard and BIS licensing requirements. The ISI Standard Mark must only be used in accordance with a valid BIS licence and its conditions.
Key compliance considerations include:
- Confirm that the product falls within the scope of IS 17070:2019.
- Identify the type of jute agrotextile being manufactured.
- Ensure the product meets the applicable technical requirements.
- Establish suitable testing, inspection and calibration arrangements.
- Obtain the required BIS licence before using the Standard Mark.
- Check the latest QCO notifications and any applicable exemptions before making regulatory decisions.
The original Agro Textiles QCO was notified on 27 September 2023, with a subsequent amendment issued on 28 March 2024. Manufacturers should consult the latest official notifications to confirm the current legal position and applicable conditions. <Cite refs={["turn879879search1","turn879879search8"]}/>
4. Types of Jute Agrotextiles Covered Under IS 17070:2019
The BIS product manual identifies three types in the licence scope:
<Cite refs={["turn400900view0"]}/>
The manufacturer should identify the type or types it intends to manufacture and include them in the proposed licence scope. The exact technical requirements for each type should be taken from the applicable edition of IS 17070:2019.
Where a manufacturer intends to cover more than one type, it should not assume that testing of one type automatically establishes conformity of all types. The BIS product manual states that a sample of each type is to be tested. <Cite refs={["turn400900view0"]}/>
5. Technical Requirements Under IS 17070:2019
The BIS product manual identifies the principal performance parameters to be evaluated for jute agrotextiles. These parameters help assess the material's physical characteristics and performance under relevant conditions. <Cite refs={["turn400900view0"]}/>
5.1 Mass at 20% moisture regain
This test evaluates the mass of the textile based on the specified moisture-regain condition. It is important for consistent product specification and quality control.
5.2 Thickness
Thickness is a physical characteristic that can influence the textile's structure, handling and intended use. Manufacturers should maintain suitable measurement arrangements and control the product against the applicable specification.
5.3 Width
The width of the textile should conform to the applicable requirements. Dimensional control helps ensure consistency during production, packaging and installation.
5.4 Wide-width tensile strength
Wide-width tensile testing evaluates the tensile performance of the textile under the prescribed test conditions. It helps establish whether the material meets the relevant strength requirements.
5.5 Tear strength
Tear strength indicates the textile's resistance to tearing under the specified test method. It is relevant to handling, installation and service performance.
5.6 Bursting strength
Bursting strength evaluates resistance to a force applied over an area of the material, using the prescribed test procedure.
5.7 Index puncture resistance
Index puncture resistance evaluates the material's response to a penetrating force. This characteristic can be relevant where the textile comes into contact with soil, vegetation or uneven surfaces.
5.8 Air permeability
Air permeability measures the passage of air through the textile under specified test conditions. It is an important performance characteristic for an agrotextile used around growing plants.
5.9 Water permittivity
Water permittivity evaluates the ability of water to pass through the material under the specified conditions. It helps assess the textile's water-transmission performance.
These nine parameters are listed in the BIS product manual as tests that may be possible to complete within a day under suitable testing arrangements. Actual completion time depends on laboratory capacity and the testing programme. <Cite refs={["turn400900view0"]}/>
Important: The exact limits, test methods and acceptance criteria must be taken from the official standard. The list of test parameters alone does not establish product conformity.
6. BIS Testing Requirements and Sample Size
Testing is an essential part of BIS certification. Manufacturers should identify the applicable product type, arrange representative samples and establish a testing plan consistent with IS 17070:2019.
Sample quantity for BIS certification
The BIS product manual specifies a sample size of
10 metres in length. It also states that a sample of each type must be tested. <Cite refs={["turn400900view0"]}/>
The sample requirement should therefore be planned according to the number of product types included in the application. Confirm the actual sampling arrangement with BIS for the specific case.
Testing equipment requirements
The product manual identifies major equipment needed to carry out the specified tests. Examples include:
- Thickness measuring equipment
- Balance and specimen-cutting equipment for mass determination
- Calibrated steel rule and suitable conditioning arrangements
- Tensile testing machine
- Tear-testing accessories
- Bursting tester
- Puncture-resistance testing accessories
- Air-permeability testing equipment
- Water-permeability apparatus
<Cite refs={["turn400900view0"]}/>
A manufacturer seeking a BIS licence should assess whether the necessary testing facilities are available and suitably maintained. Where subcontracting is permitted, the product manual states that testing may be subcontracted to a BIS-recognised laboratory or a government laboratory empanelled by BIS, subject to the applicable provisions. <Cite refs={["turn400900view0"]}/>
Where can manufacturers check testing laboratories and charges?
The official BIS Laboratory Information Management System lists laboratory scopes and testing charges for IS 17070.
For example, the LIMS listing for Ahmedabad Textile Industry's Research Association (ATIRA), Ahmedabad, shows a listed testing charge of
₹7,900 excluding taxes for IS 17070, with individual test charges displayed separately. The actual amount depends on the required scope and current laboratory quotation. <Cite refs={["turn879879search10"]}/>
Official portal:
BIS LIMS – Laboratory and Testing Information
7. Documents Required for BIS Certification
Manufacturers should prepare a complete set of technical, administrative and quality-control documents before submitting the application.
The preparation checklist commonly includes:
- Company registration documents and factory address proof
- Details of the authorised signatory
- Manufacturing process flow chart
- Factory layout and details of manufacturing machinery
- Details of jute raw materials and suppliers
- Product specifications for Type 1, Type 2 and/or Type 3, as applicable
- Quality control and inspection procedures
- List of testing equipment and relevant calibration records
- Details of in-house testing facilities or permitted external testing arrangements
- Product test records, where available
- Production and batch traceability records
- Details of technical personnel
- Labelling and marking arrangements
- Applicable BIS application forms, declarations and undertakings
The exact documents required will depend on the application category, factory arrangements and current BIS procedure. The checklist should be finalised against the latest application requirements.
8. BIS Certification Process for Jute Agrotextiles
Step 1: Confirm the standard and regulatory requirements
Review IS 17070:2019, the current product manual and the applicable Agro Textiles QCO notifications.
Step 2: Identify the product type
Determine whether the product falls under Type 1, Type 2, Type 3 or a combination of these types.
Step 3: Conduct a factory readiness assessment
Review the manufacturing process, product inspection arrangements, testing facilities, calibration and quality-control documentation.
Step 4: Prepare the application and supporting documents
Compile the required company, factory and technical documents and define the intended licence scope.
Step 5: Arrange sampling and testing
Prepare the required samples and confirm the testing plan for each type included in the application.
Step 6: Prepare for the BIS assessment
Ensure that the manufacturing facility, testing arrangements and quality records are available for examination as required by BIS.
Step 7: Address observations
If testing or assessment identifies non-conformities, implement corrective actions and provide the required evidence.
Step 8: Licence decision and ISI Mark
BIS evaluates the application, assessment findings and test results before deciding whether to grant a licence. The Standard Mark and licence number must be used in accordance with the licence schedule and applicable marking requirements. <Cite refs={["turn400900view0"]}/>
9. Factory Testing and Quality Control After Licence Grant
BIS certification is not limited to initial testing. The product manual includes a Scheme of Inspection and Testing that specifies ongoing quality-control requirements. <Cite refs={["turn400900view0"]}/>
Laboratory and calibration
The manufacturer must maintain a suitably equipped and staffed laboratory, as applicable to the specified tests. A calibration plan must be prepared and implemented for test equipment, and test records must be maintained.
Control unit
Under the product manual, packed jute agrotextiles manufactured under similar production conditions, from the same raw material, of the same type and on the same day constitute a control unit. <Cite refs={["turn400900view0"]}/>
Routine testing
The manual provides control levels and testing frequencies for the listed parameters. For example, mass at 20% moisture regain, wide-width tensile strength, tear strength, bursting strength and air permeability are specified for each control unit in the published scheme.
Index puncture resistance and water permittivity are listed with a monthly testing frequency in that scheme. Thickness and width require adequate in-process controls and inspection to ensure conformity. <Cite refs={["turn400900view0"]}/>
The applicable testing frequency and control arrangements should be confirmed with BIS, including any approved alternative levels of control.
Marking and handling of non-conforming products
The product manual requires the Standard Mark and licence number to be incorporated as specified in the licence schedule and Indian Standard. Only conforming products covered by the licence may bear the Standard Mark. Non-conforming products must be handled in a manner that does not violate the BIS Act and applicable requirements. <Cite refs={["turn400900view0"]}/>
10. BIS Certification Cost for Jute Agrotextiles
The total cost depends on the current BIS fee schedule, product types, testing scope, factory readiness and consultancy requirements.
| Cost component |
Details |
| BIS application and processing fees |
Applicable charges under the current certification procedure |
| Product testing charges |
Testing required for each relevant product type |
| Factory readiness |
Testing equipment, calibration and quality-control improvements, if needed |
| Inspection-related expenses |
Applicable assessment and related expenses |
| Marking fee and licence charges |
Current BIS fee schedule and licence conditions |
| Consultancy charges |
Scope of technical and procedural assistance |
The ₹7,900 charge shown in the ATIRA LIMS listing is a laboratory charge for the listed IS 17070 scope, not the total cost of obtaining a BIS licence. Additional costs may apply depending on the testing package and the manufacturer's circumstances. <Cite refs={["turn879879search10"]}/>
For an accurate quotation, manufacturers should first identify the intended product type or types, testing arrangements and factory readiness.
11. How Long Does BIS Certification Take?
The overall timeline depends on documentation readiness, the availability of suitable testing facilities, sample conformity, factory assessment scheduling and the resolution of any observations.
A practical project plan should allow time for:
- Standard and QCO applicability review
- Product type identification
- Factory readiness assessment
- Documentation preparation
- Application submission
- Sample preparation and testing
- Factory assessment
- Corrective actions, if necessary
- Final BIS evaluation and licence decision
A fixed completion date should not be promised without reviewing the application category and current BIS process.
12. Common Challenges Faced by Jute Agrotextile Manufacturers
Manufacturers may encounter challenges such as:
- Uncertainty about the product type under IS 17070
- Incomplete product specifications
- Inadequate testing and calibration arrangements
- Lack of documented routine testing
- Missing batch identification and traceability records
- Unclear sampling requirements for multiple types
- Incomplete documentation for factory assessment
- Incorrect use of the ISI Mark or licence number
A pre-application assessment can help identify these gaps and prepare the manufacturer for the certification process.
13. Why Choose Qualitance India for BIS Certification Consultancy?
Qualitance India provides consultancy support to manufacturers and businesses seeking BIS certification and regulatory compliance assistance.
Our support can include:
- Standard and QCO review: Assistance with identifying the applicable requirements and current regulatory position.
- Product type assessment: Help determine the intended licence scope under Type 1, Type 2 and Type 3.
- Factory readiness assessment: Review of manufacturing processes, testing arrangements and quality controls.
- Documentation assistance: Support with preparing technical and administrative documents.
- Testing coordination: Assistance with understanding sample requirements and coordinating suitable laboratory testing.
- Inspection preparation: Help organise factory records and prepare for the required assessment.
- Ongoing compliance guidance: Assistance with understanding routine testing, calibration, marking and licence conditions.
Consultancy support helps organise the certification process, but the final decision to grant a BIS licence rests with BIS.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is BIS certification mandatory for jute agrotextiles?
Jute agrotextiles for growth of plants and suppression of weeds are included in the BIS Scheme-I compulsory certification framework under the Agro Textiles QCO. Manufacturers should verify the current official notifications and applicable exemptions. <Cite refs={["turn879879search1","turn879879search2"]}/>
2. Which Indian Standard applies to jute agrotextiles?
The applicable standard is IS 17070:2019, titled
Jute Agrotextiles for Growth of Plants and Suppression of Weeds. <Cite refs={["turn400900view0"]}/>
3. What types of jute agrotextiles are covered?
The BIS product manual identifies Type 1, Type 2 and Type 3 in the licence scope. The relevant type must be identified and included in the application. <Cite refs={["turn400900view0"]}/>
4. What is the sample size for BIS testing?
The BIS product manual specifies a sample size of 10 metres in length and states that a sample of each type must be tested. Confirm the exact sampling arrangements with BIS for the intended application. <Cite refs={["turn400900view0"]}/>
5. Which tests are required under IS 17070:2019?
The product manual identifies mass at 20% moisture regain, thickness, width, wide-width tensile strength, tear strength, bursting strength, index puncture resistance, air permeability and water permittivity. The applicable test methods and acceptance criteria must be checked against the standard. <Cite refs={["turn400900view0"]}/>
6. Can testing be subcontracted to an external laboratory?
The product manual permits subcontracting for specified tests where applicable, subject to the relevant provisions. It specifies that subcontracted testing must be undertaken by a BIS-recognised laboratory or a government laboratory empanelled by BIS. Confirm the current requirements before making arrangements. <Cite refs={["turn400900view0"]}/>
7. Can Qualitance India help with BIS certification?
Yes. Qualitance India can assist with standard review, product scope assessment, documentation, testing coordination, factory readiness and inspection preparation. BIS independently evaluates the application and decides whether to grant the licence.
Conclusion
BIS certification for jute agrotextiles is an important compliance requirement for manufacturers supplying products covered under IS 17070:2019 in India. The standard addresses important performance characteristics such as tensile strength, tear strength, bursting strength, puncture resistance, air permeability and water permittivity.
Manufacturers should identify the correct product type, prepare the required sample, establish appropriate testing and calibration arrangements, and maintain records in accordance with the applicable BIS requirements. A well-prepared application can help make the certification process more organised and support ongoing product conformity.
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