The Department of Consumer Affairs has issued a notice inviting public comments on a draft amendment to the Legal Metrology (Approval of Models) Rules, 2011. The current proposal seeks to introduce “fixed validity” periods for model-approval certificates granted to weights, measures and related instruments.
Under the draft, approvals for models manufactured in India would remain valid for 10 years, while approvals for imported models would be valid for five years.
The amendment further outlines how existing approvals will be treated. Domestic models with approvals in place will continue for a period of 10 years from the date of issue, while imported models will continue for five years.
A grace period will allow for a smooth transition. Manufacturers and importers of Indian models will have two years to comply with the new rules, while those handling imported models are only given one year.
The government says this change is designed to keep the approval process up to date with advances in technology and international standards. Fixed validity will ensure that models are periodically reviewed, helping to prevent outdated or inaccurate instruments from remaining in use.
The draft is aimed at strengthening consumer protection, promoting fair trade practices and improving confidence in metrological systems that underpin daily transactions.
Submissions are to be sent to the Department of Consumer Affairs via the official email addresses listed in the notice by 9 October 2025.
