Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, Pralhad Joshi, released the new Indian Standard for incense sticks — IS 19412:2025 (Agarbatti Specification) — developed by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
He announced the standard on National Consumer Day 2025 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
The new standard bans harmful insecticidal chemicals and synthetic fragrance substances in agarbattis that threaten human health, indoor air quality, and the environment. Specifically, it bans alethrin, permethrin, cypermethrin, deltamethrin, and fipronil, along with synthetic fragrance intermediates such as benzyl cyanide, ethyl acrylate, and diphenylamine. International regulators already restrict many of these substances due to ecological and health risks.
Therefore, IS 19412:2025 sets strict requirements for raw materials, burning quality, fragrance performance, and chemical parameters. It also classifies incense sticks into machine-made, hand-made, and traditional masala agarbattis. By doing so, the standard ensures safer products and consistent quality for consumers.
Manufacturers who follow the standard can carry the BIS Standard Mark, which helps consumers make informed choices with confidence. In addition, the notification boosts consumer trust, promotes sustainable manufacturing practices, protects traditional livelihoods, and expands global market access for Indian incense products.
The Fragrance and Flavour Sectional Committee (PCD 18) of BIS developed the standard after extensive stakeholder consultations. Experts from CSIR–CIMAP, CSIR–IITR, CSIR–CFTRI, FFDC Kannauj, and the All India Agarbatti Manufacturers Association actively contributed to its formulation.
India leads the world as the largest producer and exporter of agarbattis, with the industry valued at around Rs 8,000 crore annually and exports worth Rs 1,200 crore to more than 150 countries. The sector supports artisans, MSMEs, and micro-entrepreneurs, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas, and creates significant employment opportunities, especially for women.
Furthermore, rising global interest in yoga, meditation, aromatherapy, and holistic well-being has increased demand for incense products both domestically and internationally. The new BIS standard strengthens India’s position in global markets while safeguarding consumer health and environmental sustainability.
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