Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011 : FAQ

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What is pre-packaged commodity?

Any commodity which without the purchaser being present is placed in a package of whatever nature, whether sealed or not, so that the product contained therein has a predetermined quantity.

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What are the precautions to be taken by a person while purchasing Pre-Packaged Commodities from Whole saler/ Supplier/ Manufacturer/ Shopkeeper?

Every person who either purchase or sells any Commodity in Pre-packaged shape should ensure that it bears the following declarations (rule 6):-

i. Name of item/ Commodity.
ii. Name and Address of Manufacturer/Packer/Importer.
iii. Net-quantity either in Weights, Measures or length as the case may be.
iv. Sale price of the package as MRP Rs ____ (inclusive of all taxes).
v. Month & year of Manufacture/Packing/Import.
vi. Expiry date in case of eatable item.
Vii. Name & Address of the person to be contacted in the case of consumer complaints and phone number.

These declarations are mandatory on Imported packages too.

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Who is packer ?

Any person or a firm, which pre-packs any commodity whether in any bottle, tin, wrapper or otherwise in units suitable for sale, is a Packer. Packer/Manufacturer/Importer need to register themselves with the Department through the District Assistant Controller (Flying Squad) office.

Once the Sale price (MRP) is printed on a package, no one including the packer/Manufacturer is permitted to alter it to a high rate. No one is permitted to sell a pre packaged commodity at a price higher than the MRP printed on a package. Overcharging is an offence, which shall be punished with a fine of Rs. Two thousand.

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What are the items on which the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011 are not applicable?

(i) the net weight or measure of the commodity is 10 g or 10 ml or less, if sold by weight or measure;
(ii) Any raw material for the use of Industrial purpose only.
(iii) Fast food items packed by Restaurant/hotel etc.
(iv) Drugs/Medicines covered under Drug Control Order 1955.
(v) Agriculture farm products in packet of above 50 Kg.

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Liquefied Petroleum Gas manufacturers, packers, importers, distributors or marketing companies shall maintain a Class III 50 kg, e=10 g weighing instrument and provide it to the delivery man to weigh the cylinder on delivery - rule 18(8 ) of the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011.

A good move in the interest of the consumer, if implemented.

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The compounding fee according to rule 32(3) of Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011 is -

For the contravention of Sec 18(1) of the Legal Metrology Act, 2009

Rs 5 000 - Retailer/dealer
Rs 25 000 - Manufacturer/packer/importer


For the contravention of Sec 18(2) of the Legal Metrology Act, 2009

Rs 10 000 - Retailer/dealer
Rs 50 000 - Manufacturer/packer/importer

Selling products for more than MRP, the compounding fee is -

Rs 2 000 - Retailer/dealer
Rs 5 000 - Manufacturer/packer/importer


---- A very strong step to ensure the consumer fundamental rights ---------