At Connect System, we prioritize safe and BIS-compliant electrical solutions for every project. Many counterfeit or illegally imported sockets are designed to look identical to genuine products. Why check the ISI Mark & CML Number? The safest way to verify authenticity is not just by looking for the ISI logo, but by checking the CML (Certification Marks Licence) Number issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards.
BIS Certification Requirements for Electrical Sockets in India
A genuine BIS-certified socket should have:
ISI Mark
Valid CML Number
Manufacturer’s name
Product rating and specifications
However, simply seeing an ISI mark or CML number on the product is not enough.
A Common Fraud in the Electrical Socket Market
One of the most common fraudulent practices is the misuse of a valid BIS licence number on a completely different product category.
For example:
A BIS licence issued for a switch may be printed on a socket.
A licence issued for a plug may be used on an extension board.
A licence belonging to one manufacturer may be printed on products sourced from another factory.
While the CML number may appear genuine, the product itself may not be certified for that particular application.
This is why buyers must verify not only the licence number but also the product category and manufacturer details associated with that licence.
How to Verify the CML Number Using BIS CARE App (Step-by-Step Guide)
The Government of India provides the BIS CARE App, a free mobile application that allows users to verify BIS licences and identify fake certification claims.
Download the BIS CARE App
Android (Google Play Store)
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bis.bisapp
iPhone/iPad (Apple App Store)
https://apps.apple.com/in/app/bis-care-app/id6443724891
Verification Process for BIS CML Number
Open the BIS CARE App.
Select “Verify Licence Details.”
Enter the CML Number printed on the product or packaging.
Check the results carefully.
Do not stop after confirming that the licence exists.
Verify that:
The manufacturer name matches the product.
The brand matches the packaging.
The licence is active.
Most importantly, the product category shown in BIS records matches the actual product being purchased.
For example, if you are buying a socket outlet, the BIS record should specifically correspond to that product category and not to a switch, plug, or another electrical accessory.
Warning Signs of Non-Compliant Electrical Products- Is the ISI Mark & CML Number missing ?
Be cautious if:
The ISI mark is missing.
The CML number is missing.
The CML number belongs to a different product category.
The manufacturer shown in BIS records does not match the product.
The supplier cannot provide certification details.
The price is significantly lower than established market levels.
The product has poor finishing or build quality.
Why BIS Verification is Important for Your Electrical Projects
Architects, consultants, contractors, PMCs, developers, and procurement teams should make BIS verification a mandatory part of their purchasing process.
A few minutes spent checking the CML number through the BIS CARE App can prevent:
Safety hazards
Product failures
Regulatory issues
Warranty disputes
Project delays
Reputational damage
Final Reminder Before Buying Electrical Sockets
Remember:
A valid CML number alone is not enough. Always verify that the licence belongs to the same manufacturer and the same product category you are purchasing.
Simple Rule for Safe Electrical Product Purchase
No ISI Mark.
No Valid CML Number.
No Matching Product Category.
No Purchase.
Choose Verified BIS-Compliant Electrical Solutions
At Connect System, we focus on supplying reliable and compliant electrical solutions aligned with BIS standards. Explore our range of BIS-certified products here.
