India Launches Nationwide Campaign to Promote BIS-Certified Helmets for Road Safety

Strategic Insights -

The Government of India has launched a nationwide campaign urging two-wheeler riders to use only BIS-certified helmets. The campaign, themed "Helmet -- More Than Just a Shell. Choose Smart. Ride Safe," highlights the importance of wearing scientifically tested and approved head protection. According to the World Health Organisation, wearing a proper helmet can reduce the risk of death by six times and brain injury by up to 74%. Despite advances in design and technology, helmet usage in India is still driven more by fear of penalties than genuine concern for safety.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and the Department of Consumer Affairs have launched a nationwide campaign to promote the use of BIS-certified helmets for road safety.
  • The campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of wearing scientifically tested and approved head protection, which can reduce the risk of death by six times and brain injury by up to 74%.
  • As of June 2025, 176 manufacturers across India are licensed to produce BIS-certified helmets.
  • These helmets undergo rigorous testing for impact absorption, strap strength, visibility, sound penetration, and durability in extreme conditions.
  • BIS has intensified enforcement to combat the menace of fake helmets, carrying out over 30 raids in 2024-25 and seizing more than 2,500 non-compliant helmets.
  • Legal action is underway against offenders, and District Magistrates and police departments have been instructed to take action against the sale of non-certified helmets.
  • Awareness drives are being conducted in cities like Chennai through public roadshows and free distribution campaigns.

Statistics:

  • 45% of road accident deaths in India are attributed to two-wheelers.
  • 6 times: the reduction in the risk of death when wearing a proper helmet.
  • 74%: the reduction in risk of brain injury when wearing a proper helmet.
  • 176: number of manufacturers licensed to produce BIS-certified helmets in India.
  • 2,500: number of non-compliant helmets seized by BIS in 2024-25.
  • 17: number of locations where over 500 non-compliant helmets were seized from retail points.

Sources:

  • Government of India
  • World Health Organisation
  • Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)