The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution has invited public comments on a draft amendment to the Legal Metrology (Approval of Models) Rules, 2011. The proposed changes aim to introduce a fixed period of validity for model approval certificates for all weights and measures, a move designed to align with evolving technological and regulatory standards. This notice was issued on September 9, 2025.
The draft amendment proposes a two-tiered validity period:
- Domestically Manufactured Models: Approval certificates would be valid for a period of 10 years from the date of issue.
- Imported Models: Approval certificates would be valid for 5 years from the date of issue.
This new system is intended to ensure that instruments consistently maintain their accuracy, reliability, and compliance with contemporary practices. The government has also included a provision for extending the validity period beyond these limits if deemed necessary in the public interest.
For manufacturers and importers with existing approval certificates, a transitional period has been proposed to facilitate a smooth changeover. They will have two years (for domestically manufactured models) and one year (for imported models) to obtain fresh certificates.
The Ministry has clarified that this amendment will provide a structured timeline for manufacturers to innovate and enhance designs, promoting global trade while also bolstering consumer trust and market integrity. All interested stakeholders and the public can submit their comments on the draft amendment via email to js-ca@nic.in, dirwm-ca@nic.in, and mk.naik72@gov.in within 30 days of the notice.