Weight and Measurement License

The accuracy and consistency of weight and measurement play a crucial role in various aspects of our lives, from trade and commerce to health and safety. In India, the Legal Metrology Act 2009 was enacted to ensure public guarantee from the security and accuracy of weights and measurements used in the country. Individuals and institutions must obtain specific licenses to manufacture, repair, and sell weighing and measuring instruments. Read on to learn more about the Weight and Measurement License in India and its significance in maintaining fair trade and consumer protection.

I. Introduction

Explanation of Weight and Measurement License in India

The Weight and Measurement License in India is a crucial requirement for any manufacturer, repairer, or dealer of weights and measures. Legal Metrology is the scientific study of measurement that encompasses the mandatory technical and legal requirements to ensure the public guarantee of security and accuracy of weighment and measurement. The Indian Parliament adopted the weights and measures act in December 1956, with its effective beginning on 1 October 1985. The Legal Metrology Act 2009 regulates the sale or distribution of all packaged goods in India, including export goods, food items, and consumer products. The Act mandates specific labelling requirements before the sale of pre-packed commodities, such as declarations of the name and address of the manufacturer or packer, net quantity, and retail sale price, among others. Under the Act, every manufacturer, repairer, or dealer in weight or measure must apply for a license and renew it regularly. Failure to maintain equipment according to the terms and conditions of the license or overcharging consumers can result in license suspension. 

Importance of obtaining proper licenses for manufacturers, repairers, and dealers of weights and measures

Obtaining proper licenses for manufacturers, repairers, and dealers of weights and measures is of utmost importance to ensure transparency and accuracy in business operations. The Legal Metrology Act of India provides guidelines for measuring and weighing instruments’ standards, units, and compulsory requirements to guarantee the accuracy and security of weights and measures. Without proper licensing, businesses risk facing penalties from the legal authorities.

Moreover, licensed manufacturers, dealers, and repairers are required to maintain equipment according to the terms and conditions of the license to ensure accuracy and transparency in measurements. The licensing process involves examining the applicant’s manufacturing capability and capacity, premises’ appropriateness and enough space, proper equipment and tools, literature specifying product details, MOA & AOA approved by the Registrar, incorporation certificate, and documents attested by Notary or Oath Commissioner or First-Class Magistrate. Renewals and alterations to licenses also follow a systematic procedure. 

In conclusion, obtaining licenses is crucial for businesses involved in the production, repair, and trading of weights and measures. Proper licensing ensures that businesses adhere to legal provisions and safeguard consumer rights, thus providing transparency and accuracy in weights and measures. 

II. Types of Licenses Available

Certificate for Verification and Stamping of Weights & Measures

The Certificate for Verification and Stamping of Weights & Measures is a critical document for any manufacturer and dealer dealing with weighing and measuring instruments. This certificate ensures that the equipment being used by the traders conforms to the specifications and models laid down by the government of India. The certification process involves verification and stamping of the equipment by the inspector of the Legal Metrology Department, who ensures the integrity of the stamp and the quarter in which it is verified. The certification is valid for a certain period ranging from 12-24 months, depending on the type of equipment. The renewal process involves recalibration and verification of the equipment by the authorized officers. Manufacturers and dealers who fail to obtain this certification can face penalties and legal action. Therefore, obtaining a Certificate for Verification and Stamping of Weights & Measures is an essential step in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of weighing and measuring instruments. 

Import Permit of Liquor for Retail Licenses

If’re planning to sell liquor in India, you will need a Liquor License. Apart from being a legal requirement, obtaining a Liquor License comes with its set of benefits. One of the necessary permits to obtain for retail licenses is the Import Permit of Liquor. This permit authorizes the import of foreign liquor, spirits, and other alcoholic beveragesOne the licenses that manufacturers and dealers in India must obtain is the Import Permit of Liquor for Retail Licenses. This license is granted by the State’s Excise Department and authorizes businesses to manufacture, transport, and sell alcoholic beverages within the state. Obtaining this license involves adhering to specific rules and guidelines set by the state governing authorities.

The Liquor License is essential for hotels and restaurants, as it offers them better opportunities to market and sell their products, thereby increasing their profits. Additionally, this license enhances the dining experience for customers and allows the hotel or restaurant to offer a broader range of alcoholic beverages on their menu. To obtain a Liquor License, businesses must apply to the State Excise Department, attach the required documents, and pay the applicable fees.

The Import Permit of Liquor for Retail Licenses is valid for one year. If the authorized officers or Controller discovers that the license holder is violating any rules or regulations, they have the power to suspend or revoke the license. 

Registration of Firm under the Indian Partnership Act 1932

Registration of a firm under the Indian Partnership Act 1932 is an essential step for businesses to operate legally in Meghalaya. This process involves at least two individuals coming together to conduct a lawful business activity and sharing profits earned under the partnership. To apply for this service, applicants need to register with the Office of the Inspector General of Registration (Directorate- IGR). Although partnership firms do not require a certificate of incorporation to start business activities, it is advisable to register the firm to avoid disputes among partners. In Meghalaya, there is no limit to the maximum number of partners under the Partnership Act, but there are certain provisions limiting the number of partners in banking and non-banking activities. To establish a partnership, a contract is the basis, and the partners act as mutual agents who are responsible for each other’s actions. It is essential to share profits among all partners in the agreed proportion. In conclusion, registering a partnership firm under the Indian Partnership Act ensures legal compliance and fewer disputes among partners. 

License as Manufacturer of Weights and Measures

A License as a Manufacturer of Weights and Measures is necessary for any individual or company involved in the manufacturing or packing of weights and measures instruments and devices. This license ensures that manufacturers comply with the regulations set forth by the Legal Metrology Act of 2009, which aims to control and regulate the import, manufacturing, marketing, and repair of measuring instruments in India. Obtaining this license requires registration of a company as a manufacturer, importer, or packer of weighing and measuring instruments and devices under the Legal Metrology Act. The application must be accompanied by the necessary documents, including PAN card copies, certificates of registration of the industry, and documents related to the manufacturing and packing premises.

The licensing authority, i.e., the Controller, issues licenses to manufacturers, dealers, and repairers of weights and measures instruments and devices. The license application must be in the prescribed form, and the applicant must provide specific information and documents required by law. The license is granted for a specified period, and the licensee must renew the license after the expiry date. In addition, licensed manufacturers, dealers, and repairers must maintain the equipment according to the terms and conditions of the license. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in the suspension or cancellation of the license by the Controller. 

License as Repairers of Weights and Measures

License repairers of weights and measures is another important license required for businesses dealing with measuring instruments. Under Section 23 of the Legal Metrology Act 2009, no person is allowed to repair, sell, offer, expose, or possess any weight or measure without a license issued by the Controller. The license is issued only for the area of jurisdiction after payment of the prescribed fee under the Act. The license needs to be renewed within three months of its expiry date, and any alterations or issuance of a duplicate license will require a fee equal to half of the original license fee. The Controller or other authorized officers maintain a register of licensed manufacturers, repairers, and dealers. It’s important to note that under the Act, licensed manufacturers, dealers, and repairers must maintain their equipment according to the terms and conditions of the license. Circumstances under which the Controller or other authorized officers may suspend licenses are also outlined in the Act. Obtaining proper licenses for repairing weights and measures ensures compliance with legal requirements and contributes to public safety, environmental protection, and fair trade. 

III. Legal Regulations

Section 23 of Legal Metrology Act 2009

Section 23 of the Legal Metrology Act 2009 specifies the requirement for obtaining a license by every dealer of weight and measurement items in India. This means that any person who sells weighing and measuring instruments must obtain a license from the Legal Metrology Department of the respective state. The license is issued by the Controller of the Legal Metrology Department and the process involves a physical verification of the documents by the local State Legal Metrology Officer. While applying for the license, the dealer needs to provide business proof, PAN, GST, Aadhaar of promoters, NOC from the landlord, dealership agreement, and a copy of model approval of the weight or measure which he intends to sell. After obtaining the license, every dealer must comply by keeping the prescribed records of selling any weight and measurement items and must sell only those weighing and measuring items which are duly model approved by the Ministry of Central Legal Metrology Department. As a leading legal metrology consultant, ELT Corporate Pvt Ltd offers quick and reliable services for obtaining a dealer license. 

Meghalaya Legal Metrology (Enforcement) Rules 2011

The Meghalaya Legal Metrology (Enforcement) Rules 2011 act as a framework for regulating weights and measures in the state of Meghalaya in India. These rules apply to manufacturers, dealers, and repairers of weights and measures, and have stipulations for licencing and registration of such businesses. The rules also require licenced manufacturers, dealers, and repairers to maintain equipment and follow the terms and conditions of their license. Licences issued under this act are valid for a minimum of one year and can be renewed for up to five years. There are also procedures for altering a license and issuing duplicate licenses. The rules provide circumstances under which license suspension is permissible by the Controller or other authorized officers, such as contravention of the act or making incorrect statements. The rules also mandate that packaged commodities meet certain requirements, such as having the MRP and the net weight or measure clearly labeled. Overall, the Meghalaya Legal Metrology (Enforcement) Rules 2011 aim to ensure standardization and accuracy in commercial transactions in the state of Meghalaya. 

Licencing of manufacturer, repairer and dealer of Weights and Measures

One of the key aspects of the Legal Metrology Act 2009 is the requirement for manufacturers, repairers, and dealers of weights and measures to obtain proper licenses. This is critical to ensuring fair trade and protecting public safety, the environment, consumers, and traders. There are specific licenses and application procedures related to weighing and measuring instruments and devices, which may include manufacturing, import, marketing, and repair of measuring instruments and related equipment. The licensing process involves submitting various documents related to the registered address, type of constitution, and manufacturing/packing premises. Licenses can be issued by the competent authority, which is typically the Controller of Legal Metrology. In addition to obtaining a license, licensed manufacturers, dealers, and repairers must also maintain their equipment according to the terms and conditions of the license. It is important to note that licenses can be suspended under certain circumstances, so it is essential for license holders to comply with all regulations and requirements. 

IV. Application Process

Every manufacturer or repairer of or dealer in weight or measure shall make an application for the issue of a license

As the Legal Metrology Act 2009, every manufacturer, repairer, or dealer of weights and measures must apply for a license. The license is issued by the Controller and it is mandatory for all the persons involved in the trading of weight and measure items. The license must be obtained by the manufacturer who is willing to act as a dealer or importer for a commodity. It is also important for them to obtain both dealer and manufacturer/importer licenses. The license is valid for a period ranging from one to five years, and each state has its own timeline of approval of license and application fee structure.

The applications are made to the Controller or authorized officers in the appropriate form set out in Schedule II-A. The license is issued in such form and manner on such conditions for such period and such areas of jurisdiction, on payment of the fee as prescribed, and are subject to renewal every year. Non-tribal manufacturers, repairers, or dealers operating in the Sixth Scheduled Areas of Meghalaya must obtain a Trading License from the respective Autonomous District Councils of the State of Meghalaya. Every manufacturer, repairer, or dealer licenced under the Act and under these rules shall maintain such workshop/equipments/tools/registers, etc. as per the terms and conditions of the license. The license can be renewed for a period of one to five years by the Controller or authorized officers upon payment of the fees.

Procedure for renewal of a license

Renewal of the Weight and Measurement License is essential once the original license expires. The process of renewal is straightforward, and one can do it online. The manufacturer must apply before the expiry date of the original license. The Legal Metrology Department is a wing of the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, which deals with the monitoring and regulation of weights and measures instruments and devices. The renewal application form for the license must be filled with the necessary details and documents, such as the establishment of municipal trade license date and current registration number of factory or shop. After submitting the application, the Legal Metrology Officer scrutinizes it and verifies it with the terms and conditions of the license. If there is any deficiency noticed in the renewal application, then it is sent to the applicant for resolution. Once the applicant resolves the issue, the Legal Metrology Officer prepares a recommendation and forwards it to the Deputy Controller of the Legal Metrology Department for final approval. The Deputy Controller accords the final approval and issues the Weighing Machine Renewal License to the applicant. 

Processes for altering a license and issuing duplicate licenses

Once license has been issued, the licensed manufacturers, dealers, and repairers must maintain their equipment according to the terms and conditions of the license. However, there may be circumstances under which the controller or other authorized officers may suspend licenses. In such cases, licensed entities have the option to alter their license or obtain a duplicate license.

The processes for altering a license or issuing duplicate licenses involve submitting an application to the competent authority along with the required documents. The documents may include proof of ID, company registration documents, and proof of address. If the application is complete and all documents are in order, the alteration or duplicate license will be issued within a specified time frame. 

It is important to note that altering a license may result in additional fees, and duplicate licenses may only be issued in cases where the original license has been lost or damaged. Therefore, it is crucial for manufacturers, repairers, and dealers of weights and measures to keep their licenses updated, renewed, and safe. This ensures compliance with the legal metrology regulations in India and helps maintain fair trade practices in the market. 

V. Requirements for License Holders

Licenced manufacturers, dealers, and repairers to maintain the equipment according to the terms and conditions of the license

Once a license is obtained by a manufacturer, dealer, or repairer of weights and measures, they are required to maintain their equipment according to the terms and conditions of their license. This means that they must adhere to the standards and specifications set out by the Legal Metrology Act. Failure to do so could result in penalties and even suspension of their license. To ensure compliance, licensed manufacturers, dealers, and repairers must keep accurate records of the maintenance and repair of their equipment. This record-keeping helps to ensure that the equipment remains accurate and reliable, which is essential for fair trade and consumer safety. In addition, licensed individuals must also ensure that their equipment is periodically verified and stamped to maintain its accuracy. Overall, licensed manufacturers, dealers, and repairers have a responsibility to maintain their equipment in accordance with the standards and conditions of their license to ensure accurate and fair trade for all consumers. 

VI. Suspension and Cancellation of Licenses

Circumstances under which the Controller or other authorized officers may suspend licenses

Licenses for manufacturers, repairers, and dealers of weights and measures are essential for ensuring the accuracy of commercial transactions. However, there are circumstances where the Controller or other authorized officers may suspend such licenses. The reasons may include the following:
– The license holder provided false or inaccurate information in their application.
– The licensee violated legal metrology regulations, such as the Legal Metrology Act 2009 or the Meghalaya Legal Metrology (Enforcement) Rules 2011.
– The equipment maintained by the licensee does not meet the terms and conditions outlined in the license.
– The licensee failed to make the required alterations or renewals within the specified timeframe.
– The licensee has been found guilty of tampering with weights and measures or selling defective products.

In such cases, the Controller may suspend the license until the completion of any inquiry against the licensee. The suspension prevents the licensee from conducting their business and is a serious matter. It is therefore important for licensees to comply with all regulations, maintain their equipment correctly, and act with integrity to avoid any suspension. 

VII. Documents required for Weight and Measurement License in India

 To obtain a weight and measurement license in India, the following documents are required:

 1. Proof of address of the applicant (such as Aadhar card, Voter ID, Passport, etc.)

 2. Proof of identity of the applicant (such as PAN card, Aadhar card, Voter ID, Passport, etc.)

 3. Photograph of the applicant

 4. Registration certificate of the business

 5. Business PAN card

 6. Proof of ownership of the premises (such as Sale Deed, Rent Agreement, Lease Agreement)

 7. Electrical consumption bill/Telephone bill of the premises intended to be used.

VIII. Advantages of Weight and Measurement License in India

1. It helps in ensuring that the weight and measurement of goods are accurate, which helps in preventing malpractices in trade.

 2. It strengthens consumer protection, as it ensures that consumers are not cheated in terms of quantity or quality of goods.

 3. It makes the process of doing business easier and more streamlined, as it provides a legal framework that businesses can follow.

 4. It helps in maintaining fair competition in the market, as it ensures that all businesses follow the same regulations.

IX. Disadvantages of Weight and Measurement License in India

 1. The process of obtaining a weight and measurement license can be time-consuming and tedious, which can be a deterrent for some businesses.

 2. The cost of obtaining a weight and measurement license can also be high, which can be a burden for small businesses.

 3. The regulations can be complex and difficult to understand, which can be a challenge for businesses to comply with.

X. Process of getting Weight and Measurement License in India

 The process of obtaining a weight and measurement license in India involves the following steps:

 1. Submitting the required documents to the concerned authorities.

 2. Inspection of the premises by the officials to verify compliance with regulations.

 3. Payment of the prescribed fee.

 4. Issuance of the license.

XI. Types of Weight and Measurement License in India

 1. Manufacturer’s license: This license is issued to manufacturers who produce weighing and measuring equipment.

 2. Dealer’s license: This license is issued to dealers who sell weighing and measuring equipment.

 3. Repairer’s license: This license is issued to repairers who repair weighing and measuring equipment.

 4. User’s license: This license is issued to users who use weighing and measuring equipment for commercial purposes.