Cement
Composite Cement
Strategic Recommendations for Composite Cement – IS 16415:2015
- Engage Early with BIS & Labs
Apply for BIS certification for IS 16415:2015 before production/import. Conduct mandatory tests for compressive strength, fineness, setting time, and durability at BIS-approved labs. - Partner with Compliance Experts
Collaborate with ERA’s compliance team for assistance in application, product testing, documentation, and ISI marking compliance. - Contact ERA Support Team
📧 cs@eraglobal.co.in | 📞 +91 9599296331 | 💬 WhatsApp
Support for BIS certification, testing schedules, exemption handling, and gap assessment. - Track Notifications & Circulars
Subscribe to ERA Newsletter for real-time updates on Cement QCO amendments, BIS notifications, and compliance requirements. - Do a Gap Assessment
Compare current production specifications with IS 16415:2015 requirements to identify gaps in raw material composition, setting time, and performance standards.

Section | Details |
---|---|
Product Name | Composite Cement |
IS Standard | IS 16415:2015 |
Title of IS | Composite Cement – Specification |
Quality Control Order | Cement (Quality Control) Order, 2003 |
Notification & Amendments | Notified via S.O. 191(E) dated 17 February 2003 |
Final Enforcement Date | Effective from 17 February 2003 (general Cement QCO); specific enforcement for IS 16415:2015 as per latest BIS amendment notifications. |
Objective & Scope | To ensure Composite Cement conforms to IS 16415:2015 specifications for strength, durability, and safety in construction projects by making BIS certification compulsory. |
Products Covered | Composite Cement made by blending Portland clinker with fly ash and granulated blast furnace slag, designed for reinforced concrete, mass concrete, marine structures, foundations, and sustainable construction applications. |
Exemptions | - Cement manufactured exclusively for export (subject to Central Government approval). - Temporary exemption (up to 150 days) for manufacturers who have applied for BIS license and are awaiting approval. |
Industries Impacted | Cement manufacturers, importers, dealers, distributors, construction companies, real estate, infrastructure developers, green building projects, and government procurement agencies. |
Mandatory Compliance | BIS certification under Scheme-I of BIS Conformity Assessment Regulations, 2018. - ISI Mark mandatory on every bag/packaging. - Must meet IS 16415:2015 parameters for strength, soundness, setting time, and composition. - Testing in BIS-approved labs. |
Next Steps for Stakeholders | Manufacturers/importers must obtain BIS certification before market entry. Construction companies and contractors must procure only ISI-marked Composite Cement. Dealers/distributors must ensure stocking of certified products. |
Legal Framework & Enforcement | Enforced by BIS under BIS Act, 2016 with powers to inspect, sample, seize, and prosecute. CrPC, 1973 provisions apply for search and seizure. |
Penalties for Non-Compliance | - Fine not less than ₹2,00,000, extendable up to 10× the value of non-compliant goods. - Imprisonment up to 2 years. - Continuing offences: ₹50,000 per day fine. - Suspension/cancellation of BIS license. - Seizure and disposal of uncertified cement. |
Conclusion | Composite Cement (IS 16415:2015) provides superior durability, eco-friendly construction benefits, and improved long-term strength. BIS certification ensures consistent quality and compliance, making it essential for all stakeholders in the cement and construction supply chain. |
References / Annexures | - Cement (Quality Control) Order, 2003 – S.O. 191(E) - IS 16415:2015 Standard - BIS Conformity Assessment Regulations, 2018 (Scheme-I) |
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Notification
Composite Cement is covered under the Cement (Quality Control) Order, 2003 through S.O. 191(E), dated 17 February 2003, issued by the Ministry of Commerce & Industry. It was later brought under scope through amendments specifying IS 16415:2015.
Enforcement Timeline
The order became effective from 17 February 2003, and the inclusion of IS 16415:2015 was enforced through subsequent amendments, making BIS certification and ISI marking mandatory.
Overview
Composite Cement is a blended cement manufactured by mixing Portland clinker, fly ash, and granulated blast furnace slag. It enhances durability, lowers heat of hydration, improves long-term strength, and is more eco-friendly compared to Ordinary Portland Cement.
Objective & Scope
The regulation ensures only BIS-certified Composite Cement is manufactured, imported, sold, or distributed in India, thereby guaranteeing construction quality, sustainability, and consumer safety.
Products Covered
Composite Cement including all variants made by blending Portland clinker with fly ash and slag, designed for:
- Reinforced concrete structures (RCC buildings, bridges, etc.)
- Mass concreting (dams, large foundations, retaining walls)
- Marine and sulfate-prone environments
- Sustainable, eco-friendly, and green building projects
Exemptions Provided
- Cement manufactured exclusively for export is exempt with Central Government approval.
- Temporary exemption (up to 150 days) may be granted if the BIS license application is under process.
Industries Impacted
Cement producers, importers, distributors, construction companies, real estate developers, infrastructure projects, and public procurement agencies.
Mandatory Compliance Requirements
- Manufacturers/importers must obtain BIS license under Scheme-I before production or import.
- Every cement bag/container must carry the ISI Mark.
- Cement must conform to IS 16415:2015 specifications for compressive strength, setting time, and durability.
- Testing must be done in BIS-approved laboratories.
Next Steps for Stakeholders
Manufacturers and importers must obtain BIS license. Contractors, builders, and procurement agencies should ensure procurement of only ISI-marked Composite Cement. Dealers must stock only BIS-certified material. Exporters must apply for exemptions if the product is intended solely for export.
Legal Provisions, Enforcement & Penalties
The Cement QCO is enforced under the BIS Act, 2016. Authorized officers can inspect, sample, and seize non-compliant products. Non-compliance may result in:
- Minimum fine of ₹2,00,000 (extendable to 10× value of goods).
- Imprisonment up to 2 years.
- Daily penalty of ₹50,000 for continuing violations.
- Suspension/cancellation of BIS license.
- Seizure and disposal of non-standard cement.
Conclusion
Composite Cement (IS 16415:2015) is an advanced and sustainable cement type ensuring improved durability and eco-friendly construction. Mandatory BIS certification safeguards quality and builds trust across the construction supply chain.
Ready to start your certification journey?
Let us help you navigate regulatory challenges and achieve certification with ease. Leave us your details, and we’ll get back to you—or request a free consultation today.