The Packaged Commodities Rules are a set of regulations under the Legal Metrology Act, 2009, that govern the packaging, labeling, and declaration requirements for packaged commodities in India. These rules aim to ensure fair trade practices and protect consumers’ interests by providing accurate and transparent information about the products they purchase.

Here are some key aspects of the Packaged Commodities Rules:

1. Mandatory declarations: The rules specify the mandatory declarations that must be provided on the package of a commodity, including the name and address of the manufacturer, packer, or importer, the net quantity, the month and year of packaging, the maximum retail price (MRP), and any other specific declarations required for certain products.
2. Packaging and labeling requirements: The rules set guidelines for packaging materials, dimensions, and labeling requirements to ensure that the information provided on the package is legible, prominent, and easily accessible to consumers.
3. Pre-packaged commodities: The rules define pre-packaged commodities as commodities that are packaged or made up in advance in units suitable for direct delivery to the consumer without any alteration or change in quantity.
4. Registration and licensing: Manufacturers, packers, and importers of packaged commodities are required to obtain registration or a license from the respective legal metrology authorities, such as the Controller or Director of Legal Metrology, in the prescribed manner and by paying the prescribed fees.
5. Compliance and enforcement: The Legal Metrology Act and the Packaged Commodities Rules provide for enforcement mechanisms, including inspections, seizure of non-compliant goods, and penalties for violations, to ensure compliance with the regulations.
6. Exemptions and exceptions: The rules may provide exemptions or exceptions for certain types of commodities or packaging, considering factors such as the nature of the product, its intended use, or specific industry practices.

The Packaged Commodities Rules play a crucial role in promoting fair trade practices, preventing deceptive packaging and labeling, and ensuring that consumers have access to accurate and transparent information about the products they purchase. Compliance with these rules is mandatory for manufacturers, packers, and importers of packaged commodities in India, and violations can result in legal consequences.