India, a member of the International Organization of Legal Metrology (OIML) since 1956, has now gained the authority to issue globally accepted OIML certificates for the sale of weights and measures worldwide. This achievement positions India among an exclusive group of 13 nations, including Australia, Switzerland, China, Czech Republic, Germany, Denmark, France, United Kingdom, Japan, Netherlands, Sweden, and Slovakia, as OIML approval certificate issuers.
The Department of Consumer Affairs can now issue OIML Pattern Approval certificates, which are mandatory for international weight and measure sales. India adheres to OIML recommendations and testing and calibration procedures for weights and measures. Reports generated by the Legal Metrology’s Regional Reference Standards Laboratories are now recognized by OIML issuing authorities. This designation enables India to issue OIML pattern approval certificates, serving as a vital support system for indigenous manufacturers.
Domestic manufacturers can export their weighing and measuring instruments globally without incurring additional testing fees, resulting in significant cost savings. Furthermore, India can assist foreign manufacturers by issuing OIML pattern approval certificates from certified Regional Reference Standards Laboratories (RRSLs), thereby generating foreign exchange revenue.
India’s newfound status allows it to influence OIML policies and contribute to the OIML Strategy. This system enables OIML certificates issued by OIML Issuing Authorities in OIML Member States to be accepted as the basis for national or regional type approvals for measuring instruments, eliminating the need for costly test facilities.
Today, India proudly joins the ranks of globally recognised OIML Certificates Issuing Authorities, demonstrating its commitment to quality standards and international trade facilitation. Secretary (Consumer Affairs), Shri Rohit Kumar Singh, announced this significant achievement during a press conference, supported by a presentation and video illustrating its importance.
Mr. Paul Dixon, Executive Secretary of OIML-CS, affirmed Bharat’s role as an OIML Certificates Issuing Authority, ensuring continued cooperation from OIML’s Paris Headquarters.