The Legal Metrology Act, 2009 is a law enacted by the Government of India to regulate weights and measures, and protect consumer rights by ensuring accuracy in commercial transactions involving measurement. It aims to standardize weights and measures used in trade and commerce and prevent fraudulent practices.
To establish and enforce standards of weights and measures.
To regulate trade and commerce in weights, measures, and packaged goods.
To ensure consumer protection through accurate quantity declarations.
To consolidate previous laws related to standards of weights and measures.
The Act applies to:
All weights and measures used for commercial purposes.
Goods sold by weight, measure, or number.
Packaged commodities.
Manufacturers, importers, packers, dealers, and repairers of weights/measuring instruments.
Legal Metrology: The part of metrology that deals with legal requirements regarding measurements and measuring instruments.
Pre-packaged Commodity: A product that is packaged in advance, with a label declaring quantity, before being offered for sale.
| Provision | Description |
|---|---|
| Standard Units | Mandates use of metric system (SI units) for weights and measures. |
| Verification & Stamping | All weighing and measuring instruments must be verified and stamped by authorized officers. |
| Licensing | Mandatory licenses for manufacturers, dealers, repairers, and importers of weights and measures. |
| Offences and Penalties | Penalties for use of unverified instruments, misleading declarations, or tampering. |
| Inspection & Seizure Powers | Inspectors can enter premises, inspect, seize goods/instruments violating the Act. |
The Act is supported by several Rules that provide procedural and operational details. Major rules include:
Applies to all pre-packaged goods meant for retail sale.
Mandates declaration of:
Name and address of manufacturer/packer/importer
Net quantity (in standard units)
Retail sale price (MRP)
Month and year of manufacture
Consumer care contact details
Prohibits dual MRP for the same product.
Tolerance limits for net quantity are defined.
Specifies:
Definitions and specifications of standard weights and measures
Methods of calibration and verification
Manner of seizure and disposal of non-compliant goods
Details about record maintenance by licensees.
Procedures for obtaining approval of models of weights/measuring instruments.
Testing by central laboratories before commercialization.
Prescribes the correct form and manner of expressing numbers (e.g., decimal, grouping system).
Ensures standardized numeric representation in transactions.
Specifies the national standards of weights and measures as maintained by NPL (National Physical Laboratory).
Defines how the standards are preserved and verified.
Governs private sector entities authorized to test and verify weights/measures.
Ensures accuracy and compliance through accredited testing centers.
| Offence | Penalty |
|---|---|
| Use of unverified instruments | Fine or imprisonment (up to 1 year) |
| False/misleading packaging declaration | Fine up to ₹25,000 (increased on repetition) |
| Manufacture without license | Fine and cancellation of license |
The Legal Metrology Act, 2009 along with its Rules, plays a crucial role in maintaining fair trade practices and consumer trust in the Indian market. It ensures that every product is sold and bought with accurate quantity, clear labeling, and authentic measuring instruments.
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The Legal Metrology Act, 2009 is a legislation enacted by the Government of India to regulate the trade and commerce of weights, measures, and related instruments. It plays a crucial role in ensuring accuracy, standardization, and fairness in the marketplace, protecting both consumers and businesses.
To establish uniform standards of weights and measures.
To regulate the use and manufacture of weighing and measuring instruments.
To ensure that consumers receive accurate quantity in packaged goods.
To prevent fraudulent trade practices related to quantity and measurement.
The Act is applicable to:
All goods and services sold by weight, measure, or number.
All manufacturers, packers, importers, dealers, and repairers of weights and measures.
Pre-packaged commodities sold in retail or wholesale markets.
Use of Standard Units
The Act mandates the use of the International System of Units (SI) for all trade and commerce.
Licensing Requirements
All entities engaged in manufacturing, repairing, or selling weights and measures must obtain a license from the Legal Metrology Department.
Verification and Stamping
All instruments used for trade must be verified and stamped by legal metrology officers to certify accuracy.
Packaged Commodities Regulations
Every packaged product must carry standard declarations like:
Name and address of manufacturer/packer/importer
Net quantity
MRP (inclusive of all taxes)
Date of manufacture
Customer care details
Offences and Penalties
The Act prescribes penalties for:
Use of non-standard or unverified instruments
False or misleading quantity declarations
Selling goods above MRP or using dual pricing
Inspection and Enforcement
Legal Metrology Officers are authorized to:
Enter premises
Inspect instruments and packages
Seize non-compliant goods or equipment
Governs packaging and labeling of pre-packaged goods.
Ensures declaration of essential details such as MRP, net weight, and manufacturing date.
Prohibits dual MRP for the same product.
Lays down procedures for verification, stamping, and use of weights and measures.
Provides guidelines for the maintenance of records and application of licenses.
Requires model approval for new designs of weighing/measuring instruments before use.
Models are tested by approved laboratories or institutions.
Standardizes the expression and representation of numbers used in transactions and labeling.
Prescribes how national standards of weights and measures are maintained and calibrated, typically by the National Physical Laboratory (NPL).
Allows private institutions to be authorized as test centers for verification of certain weights and measures.
| Violation | Penalty |
|---|---|
| Use of unverified measuring instruments | Fine up to ?10,000 and/or imprisonment |
| False quantity declaration | Fine up to ?25,000 for first offence |
| Operating without license | Fine and suspension or cancellation of license |
| Repeat offences | Higher fines and possible imprisonment |
The Legal Metrology Act, 2009 ensures transparency and accountability in trade and commerce involving measurements. It not only protects consumer interests by guaranteeing accurate product quantities but also benefits businesses by setting clear regulatory standards. Adhering to the Act and its rules is vital for maintaining market integrity and avoiding legal consequences.
| Taxmann's Editorial Board Legal Metrology Act 2009 with Rules |
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