Make in India Certificate – Everything You Need to Know
India is emerging as one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, and the “Make in India” initiative has been a key driver of this growth. Launched in 2014 by the Government of India, the campaign encourages companies—both domestic and foreign—to manufacture in India and contribute to the country’s economic development.
To promote authenticity and credibility, the government has introduced the Make in India Certificate, which recognizes products, services, and companies that align with the vision of local manufacturing. In this article, we’ll explain what the certificate means, who can apply, the process, benefits, and documents required.
1. What Is a Make in India Certificate?
A Make in India Certificate is an official recognition granted to businesses that manufacture their products in India or provide services that promote indigenous development. It helps establish that the company is aligned with the Government of India’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India) and Make in India mission.
This certificate is widely used by businesses when:
- Applying for government tenders.
- Showcasing Indian origin products in domestic and international markets.
- Gaining trust from customers who prefer Indian-made products.
- Expanding brand visibility under the government’s initiative.
2. Who Can Apply for a Make in India Certificate?
Any business engaged in manufacturing or service delivery within India can apply. Eligible entities include:
- Private Limited Companies
- LLPs (Limited Liability Partnerships)
- Partnership Firms
- Proprietorship Firms
- MSMEs & Startups
- Exporters & Traders (if products are made in India)
Even multinational companies operating in India with local manufacturing units can apply for the certificate.
3. Benefits of Obtaining a Make in India Certificate
Getting certified under Make in India offers several advantages:
✅ Boost in Brand Value: Customers increasingly trust businesses that promote indigenous manufacturing.
✅ Government Tender Preference: Public procurement policies often give preference to “Make in India” certified companies.
✅ Global Recognition: The certificate showcases compliance with national manufacturing standards, useful for exports.
✅ Ease of Business Growth: Enhances credibility and helps in expansion across India.
✅ Atmanirbhar Bharat Compliance: Businesses align themselves with India’s mission of self-reliance.
4. Documents Required for Make in India Certification
To apply for the certificate, businesses need to provide:
- Company Registration Proof (Certificate of Incorporation, GST Registration, MSME/UDYAM Certificate)
- PAN & Aadhaar of Directors/Proprietor
- Address Proof of Business (Utility Bill, Rent Agreement, Property Papers)
- Product/Service Details (Brochure, Catalog, or Process Flow)
- Declaration of Manufacturing in India
- Bank Account Details of the Business
- Any Existing Licenses (FSSAI, Drug License, ISO Certification if applicable)
5. Step-by-Step Process to Get a Make in India Certificate
The process is simple but must be completed through authorized consultants or certification agencies:
- Application Submission: Fill out the application form with details of the company and products/services.
- Document Verification: Authorities verify the ownership, registration, and manufacturing process.
- Evaluation of Products/Services: The claim that products are made in India is cross-verified.
- Approval & Issuance: Once verified, the Make in India Certificate is issued.
The certificate is generally valid for 1 to 3 years, depending on the category of approval.
6. Cost of Make in India Certificate in India
The cost depends on the size of the company and the certification agency you apply through. On average:
- Small Businesses & Startups: ₹10,000 – ₹25,000
- MSMEs & Mid-Sized Enterprises: ₹25,000 – ₹50,000
- Large Corporates & MNCs: ₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000+
This cost includes government fees, consultancy, and documentation support.
7. Why the Make in India Certificate Is Important
India is now a global hub for sectors like automobiles, IT, textiles, electronics, and pharmaceuticals. With government policies encouraging manufacturing, the certificate has become a key business identity document.
- It improves trust with buyers and consumers.
- Helps in export clearance by validating Indian origin.
- Strengthens chances in government procurement tenders.
- Creates an image of a patriotic, reliable, and credible brand.
8. Make in India Certificate and Government Tenders
The Public Procurement (Preference to Make in India) Order, 2017 mandates preference for local suppliers in government tenders. Companies with a Make in India certificate enjoy higher chances of winning contracts.
This makes certification highly valuable for manufacturing companies, contractors, and suppliers working with PSUs, Railways, Defence, and other government departments.
9. How Long Does It Take to Get the Certificate?
On average, it takes around 7 to 15 working days to complete the certification process, provided all documents are in order. For larger companies or exporters, it might take longer due to additional verifications.
10. Conclusion
The Make in India Certificate is more than just a recognition—it’s a symbol of trust, self-reliance, and national pride. Businesses holding this certificate not only gain credibility in the Indian market but also unlock opportunities for government tenders, export growth, and consumer trust.
As India continues to position itself as a global manufacturing hub, obtaining a Make in India Certificate is a strategic move for every entrepreneur, MSME, and large corporation that wants to stand out in a competitive market.