What is the 24(1) Legal Metrology Act?

9 October 2023

272 4 mins read

Section 24(1) of the Legal Metrology Act mandates verifying weights and measures before use in transactions, ensuring precision and compliance.

Table of Contents

Introduction

The Legal Metrology Act, 2009, is an important legislation in India that governs the standards and regulations related to weights and measures. This act is essential to ensure fair trade practices, consumer protection, and the integrity of measurement standards. Among the various rules and sections of the Legal Metrology Act, Rule 24.1 holds particular significance. In this blog, we will see the depth and breadth of this act, with a specific focus on Rule 24 (1), stressing its mandates, relevance, and real-life implications.

Simplifying the rule, Section 24(1) of the Legal Metrology Act, 2009, states that any weight or measurement instrument intended for utilisation in commercial transactions or for protective purposes must undergo an examination and validation process. This validation process is to be conducted at a designated location and time as instructed by the Controller, who is an authoritative figure in this context. It is possible that a fee may be associated with this validation procedure. The primary objective of this regulation is to guarantee the precision and dependability of the weights and measures employed in commercial activities.

Rule 24 (1) – An Overview:

Rule 24 (1 ) of the Legal Metrology Act deals with the packaging of commodities and is a vital aspect of consumer protection. It specifies the requirements for the labelling and packaging of various consumer products. This rule plays an important in ensuring that consumers are well-informed about the products they purchase, and it also safeguards them from deceptive practices.

Verification of Weights and Measures: Legal Metrology Act, 2009

1. Verification of Weights and Measures Before Use

Any individual who possesses, has custody of, or controls any weight or measurement instrument, indicating its use in a transaction or for protective purposes, must ensure that it undergoes verification before being employed for such purposes.
The verification process should take place at a location and during hours specified by the Controller, based on general or special orders, and subject to the payment of prescribed fees.

2. Government Approved Test Centres for Specific Weights and Measures

The Central Government has the authority to determine which types of weights and measures require verification through government-approved Test Centres.

3. Establishment of Government Approved Test Centres

These Test Centres are designated and notified either by the Central Government or the State Government, as applicable.
Notification occurs in accordance with prescribed procedures, terms, conditions, and fees.

4. Qualified Personnel for Verification

The Government Approved Test Centres are responsible for appointing or hiring individuals with the requisite qualifications and experience.
These personnel are authorised to collect fees and operate under terms and conditions established for the verification of weights and measures specified under subsection (2) of the Act.

Mandates of Rule 24.1

Declaration of Essential Information: One of the primary mandates of Rule 24.1 is that every package of a commodity must contain essential information. This includes the manufacturer’s name and address, the product’s net quantity, the date of manufacture or packaging, the retail sale price, and the maximum retail price (MRP).

Real-Life Scenario: Imagine purchasing a packet of chips. Rule 24.1 ensures that the packet clearly displays the net weight of the chips, the manufacturing date, and the MRP. This information empowers consumers to make informed choices.

Uniform Units of Measurement: Rule 24.1 also ensures that the units of measurement used on product labels align with the standards set by the Legal Metrology Act. This prevents confusion and provides uniformity in sizes across various products.

Real-Life Scenario: When you buy a bottle of soft drink, you can trust that the volume mentioned on the label (e.g., 500 ml) adheres to standard units of measurement, allowing you to compare it accurately with other products.

Prohibition of Dual MRP: The rule prohibits dual pricing, which means that a product cannot have two different maximum retail prices (MRPs) for different regions or markets. This prevents unfair practices and ensures price consistency.

Real-Life Scenario: You won’t encounter different MRPs for the same product in different locations, thanks to Rule 24.1.

Relevance and Implications

Rule 24.1 is not just about labelling; it has a far-reaching impact on consumers and businesses alike.

For Consumers

Empower consumers to make informed choices.
Protects them from deceptive and unfair trade practices.
Ensures that they receive the correct quantity and quality of products they purchase.

For Businesses

Encourages fair trade practices.
Ensures compliance with legal standards, preventing legal issues.
Builds trust with consumers, leading to brand loyalty and a positive reputation.

Conclusion:

Rule 24.1 of the Legal Metrology Act, 2009, plays a crucial role in ensuring transparency and fairness in the marketplace. By mandating clear labelling and packaging standards, this rule empowers consumers to make informed choices while protecting them from deceptive practices. It also encourages fair trade practices among businesses and builds trust in the marketplace. Understanding and complying with Rule 24.1 is not just a legal requirement but a commitment to ethical and responsible business practices that benefit consumers and manufacturers. As consumers, being aware of your rights under this rule can help you make wiser purchasing decisions and contribute to a more transparent and equitable marketplace.

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