BIS Certification Consultancy for Harvest Nets for Agriculture and Horticulture | IS 17357:2020 – Qualitance India
BIS Certification for Harvest Nets for Agriculture and Horticulture | IS 17357:2020
Harvest nets are specialised agro-textile products used in agriculture and horticulture to collect fruits, nuts and other agricultural produce during harvesting. They can help reduce direct contact between harvested produce and the ground, support collection operations and improve handling efficiency in orchards and agricultural fields.
Manufacturers supplying harvest nets in India need to understand the applicable Indian Standard, raw-material requirements, product testing and BIS certification obligations.
The relevant Indian Standard is
IS 17357:2020 – Agro Textiles: Harvest Nets for Agriculture and Horticulture Purposes. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has published a product-specific manual for certification under Scheme-I, covering sample requirements, testing equipment, inspection, production control and marking. <Cite refs={["turn732209view0","turn984850search5"]}/>
Qualitance India provides BIS certification consultancy to help manufacturers assess product compliance, prepare technical documentation, coordinate laboratory testing and organise the certification process.
1. What Is IS 17357:2020?
IS 17357:2020 is the Indian Standard for harvest nets intended for agricultural and horticultural applications.
These nets are used in harvesting operations where a net is placed or positioned to collect produce. Their performance depends on factors such as fabric construction, dimensions, mass, breaking strength, UV-related strength retention and other properties specified in the standard.
The BIS Product Manual PM/17357/1, dated April 2023, identifies the product as
Agro Textiles – Harvest Nets for Agriculture and Horticulture Purposes. The manual lists no amendments to the standard in that edition. Manufacturers should check the latest BIS records before submitting an application. <Cite refs={["turn732209view0"]}/>
Official reference: BIS Product Manual for IS 17357:2020 (PDF)
2. Is BIS Certification Mandatory for Harvest Nets?
Harvest nets for agriculture and horticulture purposes are listed under the BIS Scheme-I product certification framework. The product is also covered under the Agro Textiles (Quality Control) Order, 2023. The listed implementation date for this product category was 1 July 2024; manufacturers should verify the latest notification, amendments and applicable exemptions before placing covered products on the market. <Cite refs={["turn984850search5","turn984850search3","turn984850search2"]}/>
Where compulsory certification applies, the manufacturer or importer must meet the applicable requirements and obtain the required BIS licence before manufacturing for sale, importing or selling covered products, subject to the relevant legal provisions and exemptions.
The process generally involves:
- Confirming that the product falls within the scope of IS 17357:2020.
- Verifying the current Quality Control Order and its applicability.
- Ensuring conformity with the standard.
- Preparing application and manufacturing documentation.
- Submitting samples for the required tests.
- Demonstrating adequate production and quality-control arrangements.
- Obtaining the licence before using the Standard Mark.
The Standard Mark and licence number must be used only in accordance with the licence conditions and applicable marking provisions. <Cite refs={["turn732209view0","turn984850search2"]}/>
3. Product Scope and Raw-Material Requirements
IS 17357:2020 covers harvest nets for agricultural and horticultural purposes.
The BIS Product Manual specifies that the
HDPE monofilament used must conform to Clauses 4.1 and 4.1.1 of IS 17357:2020. The manual does not provide separate product-grouping guidelines. <Cite refs={["turn732209view0"]}/>
Before applying, manufacturers should prepare details of:
- Harvest-net construction and fabric specification.
- HDPE monofilament material and supplier.
- Product width and length.
- Net mass per unit area.
- Fabric colour.
- Eyelet design and fixing arrangement, where applicable.
- Manufacturing process and inspection controls.
- Proposed packaging and marking.
The final scope of the licence must be consistent with the product assessed by BIS and the manufacturer's manufacturing capabilities.
4. Key Technical Requirements Under IS 17357:2020
The standard establishes requirements for the fabric, colour, eyelets, dimensions and performance characteristics of harvest nets.
4.1 HDPE Monofilament
The HDPE monofilament used in manufacturing must meet the applicable material requirements of the standard. Manufacturers should retain raw-material specifications, supplier information and supporting conformity evidence.
4.2 Fabric Construction
The net fabric must meet the applicable construction requirements. Manufacturers should establish in-process checks to maintain consistency in fabric formation and relevant construction characteristics.
4.3 Colour
The colour of the finished net must comply with the applicable standard requirements. Where colour performance testing applies, the prescribed test method and acceptance criteria should be followed.
4.4 Eyelets and Fixing
Where eyelets are provided, their fixing and arrangement must meet the relevant requirements. Manufacturers should maintain controls to ensure consistent installation and avoid defects during use.
4.5 Dimensions and Mass
The standard includes requirements for the length, width and mass of the harvest net. The finished product should be inspected using appropriate measuring equipment and the applicable methods.
4.6 Breaking Strength
The standard specifies average breaking-strength requirements for the harvest-net fabric in both the warp and weft directions. These properties help assess the fabric's mechanical performance under the prescribed test conditions.
4.7 UV Resistance
The standard includes a requirement relating to retention of breaking strength after 144 hours of UV exposure. This is important for agricultural nets that may be exposed to sunlight during use.
4.8 Colour Fastness, Bursting Pressure and Air Permeability
The applicable requirements also include colour fastness to artificial light, bursting pressure and air permeability. The relevant test methods and acceptance criteria must be taken from IS 17357:2020 and its current official documentation. <Cite refs={["turn732209view0"]}/>
5. BIS Sample Requirements for Harvest Nets
The BIS Product Manual PM/17357/1 specifies the following sample requirements. <Cite refs={["turn732209view0"]}/>
| Item |
Requirement |
| Finished harvest net |
10 metres in length |
| Raw material |
HDPE monofilament conforming to Clauses 4.1 and 4.1.1 |
| Product grouping |
No separate grouping guidelines specified in the manual |
Manufacturers should confirm sample preparation, width requirements, identification and submission instructions with the relevant BIS office or testing laboratory before dispatch.
Important: The specified sample length should not be interpreted as confirmation that every product variation is automatically covered. The proposed product scope and applicable testing requirements must be assessed separately.
6. Tests Required for BIS Certification Under IS 17357:2020
Testing is a central part of the certification process. The BIS Product Manual identifies the following key tests and inspections. <Cite refs={["turn732209view0"]}/>
6.1 Dimensional and Fabric Checks
- Length of the harvest net.
- Width of the fabric.
- Mass per unit area.
- Fabric construction and conformity.
6.2 Mechanical Performance Tests
- Average breaking strength of the harvest-net fabric in the warp direction.
- Average breaking strength in the weft direction.
- Retention of breaking strength after 144 hours of UV exposure.
6.3 Additional Performance Tests
- Colour fastness to artificial light.
- Bursting pressure.
- Air permeability at the specified pressure conditions.
The Product Manual also identifies the applicable testing references, including IS 1954 for length and width, IS 1964 for mass, IS 1969 (Part 1) for breaking strength, ISO 105-B02 for colour fastness, IS 1966 (Part 1) or IS 1966 (Part 2) for bursting pressure, and IS 11056 for air permeability. <Cite refs={["turn732209view0"]}/>
The precise acceptance criteria, specimen preparation and testing conditions must be checked in the complete Indian Standard. A test list alone does not establish product conformity.
7. Testing Equipment and Laboratory Requirements
The BIS Product Manual provides an indicative list of major equipment required for testing harvest nets. <Cite refs={["turn732209view0"]}/>
Examples include:
- Calibrated steel rule of at least 2 metres.
- Smooth, flat measuring table.
- Conditioning chamber capable of maintaining the specified temperature and relative humidity.
- Suitable balance for mass determination.
- Tensile testing machine and specimen-cutting equipment.
- Fluorescent UV-B lamp or equivalent UV exposure arrangement.
- Equipment for colour-fastness assessment.
- Bursting tester.
- Air-permeability testing apparatus, including the required clamping and airflow-measuring arrangements.
The manual states that the list is indicative for guidance. Manufacturers must establish laboratory arrangements consistent with the applicable requirements and the testing facilities accepted for their certification. <Cite refs={["turn732209view0"]}/>
Where subcontracting is permitted under the applicable inspection and testing scheme, tests may be carried out at laboratories recognised by BIS or government laboratories empanelled by BIS.
8. Documents Required for BIS Certification
The exact documents depend on the applicant's legal structure, manufacturing arrangements and the current BIS application procedure. A practical preparation checklist includes the following.
Company and Factory Documents
- Company registration or constitution documents.
- Factory address and contact information.
- Authorised signatory details.
- Manufacturing facility details.
- Production and quality-control personnel information.
- Applicable identity and address documents.
Product and Technical Documents
- Product description and intended application.
- Harvest-net drawings or construction details.
- Fabric specifications and dimensions.
- HDPE monofilament specifications.
- Details of colour and eyelet construction, where applicable.
- Manufacturing process flow chart.
- Machinery and equipment list.
- Inspection and testing plan.
- Packaging and marking details.
Quality-Control Documents
- Raw-material supplier information.
- Supplier test certificates, where applicable.
- Incoming-material inspection records.
- In-process fabric inspection records.
- Finished-product inspection records.
- Calibration plan and calibration records.
- Test equipment maintenance records.
- Production and lot traceability records.
- Procedure for handling non-conforming products.
Application and Testing Documents
- BIS application information and supporting documents.
- Sample identification and submission records.
- Relevant internal or external test reports.
- Details of available testing facilities.
- Additional documents requested by BIS during assessment.
The final checklist should be aligned with the current application instructions and the official Product Manual for IS 17357:2020.
9. Step-by-Step BIS Certification Process
Step 1: Confirm Applicability
Review the product against IS 17357:2020 and confirm the applicability of the Agro Textiles Quality Control Order, including any amendments or exemptions.
Step 2: Review the Product and Factory
Assess HDPE monofilament, fabric construction, dimensions, colour, eyelets and manufacturing controls. Identify technical or documentation gaps before applying.
Step 3: Prepare the Application Documents
Compile the company, factory, product, manufacturing and quality-control documentation required under the applicable BIS process.
Step 4: Submit the BIS Application
Submit the application through the applicable BIS certification route with the required information and supporting documents.
Step 5: Arrange Sample Testing
Prepare the required harvest-net sample and raw-material information. Coordinate testing against the applicable requirements of IS 17357:2020.
Step 6: Complete Factory Assessment, Where Required
Support assessment of the manufacturing facility, production process, laboratory arrangements, quality-control records and product conformity.
Step 7: Resolve Non-Conformities
If any test failure or assessment observation arises, investigate the cause, implement corrective action and provide the required evidence or repeat testing as directed.
Step 8: Obtain the BIS Licence
BIS grants the licence after the applicable certification requirements are satisfied. The Standard Mark must not be used before authorisation.
Step 9: Maintain Ongoing Compliance
Maintain production inspection, test records, calibration, traceability and other controls specified by the licence and applicable inspection and testing scheme.
10. Quality Control After BIS Licence Grant
Obtaining a BIS licence is not the end of the compliance process. Manufacturers must continue to ensure that harvest nets produced under the licence conform to IS 17357:2020.
The BIS Product Manual provides a Scheme of Inspection and Testing with the following important provisions. <Cite refs={["turn732209view0"]}/>
Control Unit
All harvest-net rolls or bundles of the same construction dispatched to a buyer against one dispatch note constitute one control unit.
Production and Inspection Controls
The manual requires adequate in-process controls and inspection for fabric, colour, eyelets, length and width.
Routine Testing
The manual specifies one sample per control unit for certain tests, including mass, average breaking strength in warp and weft directions, bursting pressure and air permeability.
It specifies monthly testing for retention of breaking strength after UV exposure and colour fastness to artificial light.
Calibration and Records
Manufacturers must prepare and implement a calibration plan for test equipment and maintain records of tests carried out to establish conformity.
The manual notes that the control unit and levels of control are recommendatory and that a licensee may submit proposed levels of control for approval by the Head of the BIS Branch Office. The applicable approved requirements must be followed. <Cite refs={["turn732209view0"]}/>
11. BIS Certification Cost for Harvest Nets
The total certification cost depends on the current BIS fee structure, laboratory testing requirements, manufacturing readiness and the testing arrangements accepted for the application.
Potential cost components include:
- BIS application and processing charges.
- Product testing and laboratory charges.
- Sample preparation and transportation.
- Testing equipment and calibration, where additional arrangements are needed.
- Manufacturing and quality-control improvements.
- Applicable licence and marking charges.
- Professional consultancy charges, if a consultant is engaged.
The BIS Laboratory Information Management System lists IS 17357:2020 testing facilities and relevant test parameters. Manufacturers should check the current listing and confirm which tests are included in a laboratory's scope before budgeting. <Cite refs={["turn732209view1"]}/>
Official resource: BIS LIMS – Laboratory Information and Testing Facilities
A project-specific estimate should be prepared after confirming the product specification, required tests, laboratory availability and factory readiness. Avoid treating a partial laboratory charge as the complete cost of BIS certification.
12. How Long Does BIS Certification Take?
The certification timeline depends on application completeness, sample conformity, testing-facility availability and manufacturing readiness.
The process may take longer if:
- Product specifications are incomplete.
- HDPE monofilament or fabric fails a requirement.
- Breaking strength or UV-retention results are unsatisfactory.
- Laboratory equipment or calibration arrangements are inadequate.
- Manufacturing inspection records are incomplete.
- Additional testing or corrective actions are required.
Manufacturers should plan for documentation, sample testing, factory assessment where applicable, and closure of non-conformities. A reliable timeline should be estimated only after reviewing the product and the current certification procedure.
13. Common Compliance Challenges for Harvest-Net Manufacturers
Inadequate Raw-Material Traceability
Maintain supplier details and conformity records for HDPE monofilament used in production.
Inconsistent Fabric Construction
Establish in-process checks to maintain the required fabric construction and consistency.
Variation in Dimensions and Mass
Check the length, width and mass of finished products using suitable equipment and maintain inspection records.
Failure of Breaking-Strength Tests
Review the raw material, fabric construction and production parameters if the net fails the prescribed mechanical tests.
Poor UV Performance
The standard includes retention of breaking strength after 144 hours of UV exposure. Manufacturers should validate material performance against the prescribed method.
Inadequate Testing and Calibration Records
Maintain test results, calibration plans and equipment records so that conformity can be demonstrated during assessment.
Incorrect Standard Marking
Use the Standard Mark and licence number only as authorised under the BIS licence and applicable marking requirements.
14. Why Choose Qualitance India for BIS Certification Consultancy?
Qualitance India supports manufacturers seeking BIS product certification and regulatory compliance for industrial and agricultural products.
For harvest nets under IS 17357:2020, our consultancy support can include:
- Applicability assessment against the Indian Standard and Quality Control Order.
- Technical specification and documentation review.
- Guidance on sample preparation and testing.
- Assistance with BIS application documentation.
- Laboratory testing coordination.
- Manufacturing and quality-control gap assessment.
- Factory-readiness support.
- Assistance with addressing assessment observations.
- Guidance on marking and ongoing compliance.
Our approach focuses on identifying technical and documentation gaps early, helping manufacturers organise their certification activities and preparing them for the applicable BIS assessment.
The final decision to grant a BIS licence rests with the Bureau of Indian Standards.
15. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Which Indian Standard applies to harvest nets for agriculture and horticulture?
The applicable standard is IS 17357:2020,
Agro Textiles – Harvest Nets for Agriculture and Horticulture Purposes.
Q2. Is BIS certification mandatory for harvest nets in India?
The product is listed under Scheme-I and covered by the Agro Textiles Quality Control Order, 2023. The listed implementation date was 1 July 2024. Manufacturers should verify the latest notification and applicable exemptions before placing covered products on the market. <Cite refs={["turn984850search5","turn984850search3"]}/>
Q3. What sample size is specified by the BIS Product Manual?
The April 2023 Product Manual specifies a finished harvest-net sample of 10 metres in length. Confirm the full submission arrangements with the relevant BIS office or laboratory. <Cite refs={["turn732209view0"]}/>
Q4. Which raw material is specified in the Product Manual?
The manual states that HDPE monofilament used must conform to Clauses 4.1 and 4.1.1 of IS 17357:2020. <Cite refs={["turn732209view0"]}/>
Q5. What are the main tests under IS 17357:2020?
Key tests include length, width, mass, breaking strength in warp and weft directions, retention of breaking strength after UV exposure, colour fastness to artificial light, bursting pressure and air permeability.
Q6. Is UV testing required?
The Product Manual includes retention of breaking strength after 144 hours of UV exposure. It specifies monthly testing for this characteristic under the inspection and testing scheme. <Cite refs={["turn732209view0"]}/>
Q7. Is an in-house laboratory required?
The Product Manual requires suitable laboratory arrangements and calibrated test equipment. Certain tests may be subcontracted to laboratories recognised by BIS or government laboratories empanelled by BIS, where permitted by the applicable scheme. <Cite refs={["turn732209view0"]}/>
Q8. Can Qualitance India help with BIS certification?
Yes. Qualitance India provides consultancy support for applicability assessment, documentation, sample testing coordination, manufacturing-readiness review and certification-process assistance.
16. Official References
Manufacturers should consult the following official resources before applying:
- BIS Product Manual for IS 17357:2020: Download PDF
- BIS Scheme-I Product Listing: View Official BIS Scheme-I Page
- BIS Products Under Compulsory Certification: Official BIS Page
- BIS Laboratory Information Management System: Search Testing Facilities
Always verify the current standard status, QCO provisions, implementation dates, exemptions and certification instructions before submitting an application.
Get BIS Certification Consultancy for Harvest Nets
Are you manufacturing harvest nets for agricultural or horticultural applications and planning to obtain BIS certification under IS 17357:2020?
Qualitance India – Improving Quality & Competence can help you review the applicable requirements, prepare technical documentation, coordinate sample testing, assess manufacturing readiness and navigate the BIS certification process.
Contact our team to discuss your product, manufacturing facility, testing requirements and certification plan.
Qualitance India – Improving Quality & Competence
Contact Qualitance India for professional BIS certification consultancy and product compliance support for harvest nets for agriculture and horticulture under IS 17357:2020.
