If you are planning to register your business under MSME through Udyam Registration portal. (formerly known as Udyog Aadhar), understanding the NIC Code is essential. Whether you run a kirana store, IT services company, trading business, or service-based firm, selecting the correct NIC code for Udyam Aadhar is crucial.
This detailed guide will help you understand everything about:
- NIC code list
- NIC code for MSME
- NIC code search
- Business-specific NIC codes
- Udyam NIC code list
What is NIC Code?
The NIC Code (National Industrial Classification Code) is a system used by the Government of India to classify businesses based on their economic activities.
It is widely used for:
- Udyam Registration (MSME)
- Company Incorporation
- LLP Incorporation
- GST Registration
- Business identification
Each business activity is assigned a unique code, making it easier for authorities to categorize industries.
NIC Code Structure Explained
The NIC code is divided into levels:
- NIC 2 Digit Code for Udyog Aadhar → Broad category
- 4 Digit NIC Code → Sub-category
- 5 Digit NIC Code → Specific business activity
For example:
- Retail Trade → 47
- Grocery Store → 4711
Why NIC Code is Important for MSME?
Choosing the correct NIC code for MSME ensures:
- Accurate business classification
- Smooth Udyam Registration
- Eligibility for government schemes
- Proper compliance during taxation
Using the wrong NIC code can lead to rejection or future complications.
NIC Code Search – How to Find the Right Code
To perform a proper NIC code search, follow these steps:
- Identify your business activity
- Visit the official Udyam Registration portal
- Use the NIC code list 2021 (latest updated classification is still based on it)
- Select the closest matching activity
Always choose the most relevant code for your primary business.
How to Change NIC Code in Udyam Certificate
If you selected the wrong NIC code during registration or your business activity has changed, you can easily update it in your Udyam Registration Certificate online. The government allows businesses to modify their details without any hassle.
Steps to Change NIC Code in Udyam Registration
- Visit the official Udyam Registration portal
- Click on “Update Udyam Registration”
- Enter your Udyam Registration Number (URN)
- Verify using OTP (sent to your registered mobile/email)
- Once logged in, go to the “Business Activities / NIC Code” section
- Add, remove, or edit your NIC codes as per your current business activity
- Review all changes carefully
- Click on Submit and Finalize
Popular NIC Codes for Different Businesses
Below is a categorized NIC code list for Udyam Aadhar and MSME:
1. Kirana Store NIC Code
If you own a grocery shop, these are the most relevant:
- NIC Code for Kirana Store: 4711
- Kirana General Store NIC Code for Udyog Aadhar: 4711
- Wholesale Kirana Store NIC Code: 4630
These fall under Retail SIC / Retail Trade category.
2. Vegetable Shop NIC Code
- Vegetable Shop NIC Code: 4721
This includes fresh fruits and vegetable retail businesses.
3. Building Material Suppliers NIC Code
- NIC Code for Building Material Suppliers: 4663
- Includes cement, sand, steel, bricks suppliers
4. NIC Code for Agricultural Trading
- NIC Code for Agricultural Trading for Udyog Aadhar: 4620
Used for wholesale trading of grains, seeds, and agricultural raw materials.
5. NIC Code for IT Services
- NIC Code for IT Services: 6201
- Software development, consulting, and IT solutions
6. NIC Code for Accounting Services
- NIC Code for Accounting Services: 6920
Includes bookkeeping, auditing, and tax consultancy.
7. NIC Code for Loan Services / Financial Services
- NIC Code for Loan Services: 6499
Covers financial intermediation services.
8. NIC Code for Share Trading
- NIC Code for Share Trading: 6612
Used for stock brokers and trading activities.
9. NIC Code for Digital Signature Services
- Digital Signature NIC Code: 6209
10. NIC Code for CSP (Customer Service Point)
- CSP NIC Code: 6619
Used for banking correspondents and service centers.
11. NIC Code for Truck Transport Services
- NIC Code for Truck Transport Services: 4923
12. NIC Code for Car Washing Service
- NIC Code for Car Washing Service: 4520
13. NIC Code for AC Repair & Maintenance Services
- NIC Code for AC Repair and Maintenance Services: 3312
- NIC Code for Air Conditioner Service: 3312
14. NIC Code for RO Water Purifier Service
- NIC Code for Water Purifier Service: 3600 / 3700 (depending on activity)
15. NIC Code for Painting Services
- NIC Code for Painting Services: 4330
16. NIC Code for Plastic Recycling
- NIC Code for Plastic Recycling: 3830
17. NIC Code for Electrical Shop
- NIC Code for Electrical Shop for Udyog Aadhar: 4759
18. NIC Code for Traders
- General NIC Code for Traders: 4690 / 4791
NIC Code for Company Incorporation
When registering a company or LLP:
- NIC Code for Company Incorporation depends on activity
- Same applies for NIC Code for LLP Incorporation
The MCA portal requires selecting the correct industrial classification.
NIC Code List 2021 (Latest Reference)
The official NIC code list 2021 is still used for:
- Udyam Registration
- MSME classification
- Business registration
Even in 2026, this classification remains standard.
Difference Between NIC Code and SIC Code
Many users search for Industry SIC or Retail SIC, but:
- NIC Code → Used in India
- SIC Code (Standard Industrial Classification) → Used internationally
For Indian MSME, always use NIC codes.
How to Choose the Right NIC Code for Udyam Aadhar
Follow these tips:
- Choose based on your main business activity
- Avoid selecting unrelated codes
- You can select multiple NIC codes if needed
- Keep consistency with GST and company registration
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Selecting wrong NIC code
- Using outdated classification incorrectly
- Not matching business activity with code
- Ignoring sub-category codes
Udyog Aadhar Industry Classification Explained
Earlier, businesses in India registered under Udyog Aadhar, which has now been replaced by Udyam Registration. While the registration process has been upgraded and digitized, the core method of classifying business activities remains unchanged.
The Udyog Aadhar NIC Code system is still relevant today because it is based on the National Industrial Classification (NIC) framework issued by the government. This system categorizes businesses into specific sectors such as manufacturing, trading, and services using standardized codes.
Even under Udyam Registration, applicants are required to select the appropriate NIC code that accurately represents their primary business activity. This ensures consistency in business classification across all government platforms, including MSME registration, GST, and company incorporation.
In simple terms, although the name has changed from Udyog Aadhar to Udyam Registration, the industry classification system using NIC codes remains the same. Choosing the correct NIC code is still essential for proper registration, compliance, and eligibility for government schemes.
NIC Code Search Tips for Better Accuracy
When performing a NIC code search:
- Use exact business keywords
- Check similar categories
- Compare multiple options
- Always verify before final submission
Conclusion
Understanding the NIC Code list for Udyam Registration is essential for every business owner. Whether you run a kirana store, IT company, trading business, or service-based firm, selecting the correct NIC code for MSME ensures smooth registration and compliance.
Always perform a proper NIC code search, refer to the NIC code list 2021, and choose the most relevant classification for your business.
FAQs
1. What is NIC code for Udyam Aadhar?
It is a classification code used to identify your business activity during MSME (Udyam) registration.
2. What is NIC code for kirana store?
The NIC code for a kirana store is 4711, which falls under retail trade.
3. How to search NIC code for Udyam Registration?
You can perform a NIC code search on the Udyam portal by selecting your business activity from the NIC code list.
4. Can I select multiple NIC codes in Udyam?
Yes, you can select multiple NIC codes if your business involves more than one activity.
5. Is NIC code mandatory for MSME registration?
Yes, selecting the correct NIC code is mandatory for Udyam Registration.
6. Where to find NIC code in Udyam?
You can find your NIC code in your Udyam Registration Certificate under the business activity section. You can also check it by logging into the Udyam portal and viewing your registration details.
7. What is the NIC code 71200?
NIC code 71200 refers to technical testing and analysis services, including material testing, quality inspection, and certification services.
8. What is the NIC code 47300?
NIC code 47300 is used for retail sale of automotive fuel, such as petrol pumps, diesel outlets, and gas stations.
