Did the Govt Award 12 GATC Certificates to 11 Private Entities to Enhance the Legal Metrology Ecosystem?
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Synopsis
The Indian government has awarded 12 GATC certificates to 11 private entities, marking a transformative step in legal metrology. This initiative aims to enhance verification processes and bolster consumer trust in trade practices. Discover how this change is set to improve business operations and regulatory efficiency.
Key Takeaways
- The government awarded 12 GATC certificates to 11 private entities.
- This initiative enhances India's legal metrology verification system.
- It allows private entities to participate in verification processes.
- 18 categories of instruments are now covered under the new rules.
- Improved accuracy and reliability in trade practices are anticipated.
New Delhi, Dec 29 (NationPress) The government announced on Monday that the Department of Consumer Affairs has reached a significant milestone by granting 12 Government Approved Test Centre (GATC) certificates to 11 private entities. This move is designed to enhance India's legal metrology verification ecosystem through a structured public-private partnership.
This initiative represents a pivotal reform in the nation’s legal metrology framework, broadening verification capabilities beyond the public sector and allowing for increased involvement of qualified private organizations.
The goal of this initiative is to bolster the accuracy and reliability of weights and measures utilized in trade and consumer transactions, while also facilitating a smoother business environment and improving regulatory effectiveness, as stated by the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution.
The certificates were awarded by Pralhad Joshi, the Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, in the presence of BL Verma, the Minister of State for Consumer Affairs.
The recognition of private entities as GATCs is a result of the modification of the Legal Metrology (Government Approved Test Centre) Rules, 2013, which was notified on October 23, 2025.
As per the ministry, the updated Rules significantly broadened the scope of GATCs, permitting private laboratories and industries that meet the established technical criteria to carry out verification and re-verification of weighing and measuring instruments, in line with international best practices.
Under the revised framework, 18 categories of weighing and measuring instruments are now included, reflecting the Government’s commitment to responsive technological and sectoral needs across healthcare, transportation, energy, infrastructure, and consumer services.
The acknowledgment of private GATCs is expected to greatly enhance access to verification services, decrease turnaround times, and promote quicker compliance among manufacturers, traders, and service providers nationwide.
The ministry emphasized that regular and decentralized verification of consumer-facing instruments such as weighing scales, water meters, and energy meters will reduce inaccuracies, ensuring consumers receive full value in everyday transactions and enhancing trust in the marketplace.
Point of View
This development is a crucial step towards modernizing India's legal metrology framework. By integrating private entities into the verification process, the government is not only enhancing operational efficiency but also fostering a more collaborative environment that supports both consumer rights and business growth. This initiative aligns with the nation's ongoing commitment to improve regulatory practices and adapt to evolving market demands.
NationPress
29/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are GATC certificates?
GATC certificates signify that a test center is recognized by the government to conduct verification and re-verification of weighing and measuring instruments, ensuring compliance with legal standards.
Why is this initiative important?
This initiative enhances the accuracy and reliability of weights and measures used in trade, thereby improving consumer trust and business operations.
Who awarded the GATC certificates?
The certificates were presented by Pralhad Joshi, the Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution.
How many private entities received GATC certificates?
A total of 11 private entities received GATC certificates.
What is the expected impact of recognizing private GATCs?
The recognition of private GATCs is expected to improve accessibility to verification services, reduce turnaround times, and support faster compliance for manufacturers and service providers.
