The Union Cabinet today approved the proposal to introduce a Bill, viz., the Standards of Weights and Measures (Enforcement) Amendment Bill, 2005 in the ensuing session of Parliament to make amendments to the Standards of Weights and Measures (Enforcement) Act, 1985.
The Act provides for Enforcement of Standards of Weights and Measures established by or under the Standards of Weight and Measures Act, 1976 and related matters. There have been considerable changes since the enactment of this legislation in technology, measurement techniques and measuring instruments. With changes in the Standards of Weights and Measures Act, 1976 there is also a need to re-align the Enforcement Act. It is also necessary to bring about the uniformity in the enforcement of the Act in the States.
The Amendment proposes to raise the ceiling on fees to make these more rational and commensurate with the services provided under the Act. It is also proposed to make a provision for the Central Government to prescribe the fee to be levied by the State Governments to ensure uniformity.
Power to make rules to carry out the provisions of the Act is being shifted from the State Governments to the central government. This would enable uniform implementation of the Rules throughout the country. At present, model rules are prepared and sent to the States for adoption. But due to procedural problems, variations in the Rules occur from State to State.
The provision to prescribe the qualifications for appointment of Inspectors and other officials under the Act will result in providing quality and professional service, beneficial to consumers and industries.
The requirement of registration of users of weight or measure with enforcement officials is being deleted as it has become obsolete.
The validity of the licence for manufacture and repair of any weight or measure issued by a State Government to manufacturers is being made valid throughout the country so that they may sell and repair their products any where in the country. At present they are required to take licence from each State and some times from each district, for the purpose.
Penalties for various offences under the Act are being reviewed suitably for updation.
SBK:CP:act1985
(Release ID :6859)