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Legal Metrology Meaning in India

LEGAL METROLOGY- MEANING

Metrology refers to the science of measurement. It refers to the units and methods of weighment and measurement, subject to laws and regulations. To provide a uniform standard of weights and measures, the Standards of Weight and Measurement Act, 1976 and the Standards of Weights and Measures (Enforcement) Act, 1985 were enacted. However, advancement in science and technology brought about improvement in the scope of weights and measures. Therefore, to standardize weights and measures in trade and commerce and keep up with the advances in science and technology, the Legal Metrology Act, 2009 was enacted, repealing the Standards of Weight and Measurement Act, 1976 and the Standards of Weights and Measures (Enforcement) Act, 1985. Similarly, Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011 (“PC Rules”) was enacted underlying the rules relating to mandatory declarations on packaged commodities, registrations of manufactures/packers/importers, provisions relating to wholesale and retail dealers, Power of Government to inspect the premises, penalty etc. which are being amended from time to time to ensure that the law keeps pace with changes in technology.

The Legal Metrology Act, 2009

The Legal Metrology Act, 2009 (“LM Act”) establishes uniform weights and measures and regulates trade and commerce in weights, measures and other goods which are sold or distributed by weight, measure or number. Every manufacturer or importer of goods sold by weight, measure or number has to obtain approval of the model of a weight or a measure from the competent authorities before manufacturing or importing.

The Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011

The PC Rules governs the packaging and labelling of commodities. Chapter II of the PC Rules contains provisions applicable to packages intended to be sold for retail sale. Retail sale means the sale, distribution or delivery of commodities through retail sales shops, agencies or other instrumentalities for consumption by an individual or group of individuals or any other consumer. Recently, The LM (Packaged Commodities) Amendment Rules, 2011 have been amended and the new The LM (Packaged Commodities) Amendment Rules, 2017 were notified on June 23, 2017, which shall come into force from January 01, 2018.  The amended PC Rules seek to enhance protection of consumers while balancing the requirement of ease of doing business.  

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Legal Metrology in India

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