India is hosting the 61st meeting of the International Committee of Legal Metrology (CIML) in New Delhi from October 26 to 28, 2026, marking the country’s first time hosting a meeting of the International Organization of Legal Metrology (OIML). The gathering brings together international delegates, senior government officials, and technical specialists to strengthen cooperation on measurement standards and promote fairness in global commerce.
During the opening proceedings, CIML President Dr. Bob Joseph Matthew highlighted the importance of legal metrology in supporting equitable trade and international collaboration. CIML First Vice-President Renée Hansson, who chaired the opening seminar, discussed how measurement systems must adapt to digitalization and emerging technologies.
Anthony Donellan, director of the International Bureau of Legal Metrology, outlined the OIML’s work to establish consistent technical recommendations worldwide. He also highlighted the OIML Certification System, which facilitates the mutual acceptance of test results and supports greater consistency in international markets.
Nidhi Khare, secretary of India’s Department of Consumer Affairs, emphasized that reliable, internationally aligned measurements are essential for consumer confidence, fair trade, and economic development. She also discussed the Jan Vishwas reforms introduced in 2023 and 2026, which reflect India’s efforts to balance consumer protection with a more business-friendly regulatory environment. Measures include decriminalizing specified offenses, introducing improvement notices, and establishing graded penalties.
India has also expanded Government Approved Test Centres, developed the e-Maap National Portal, and gained recognition as an issuing authority under the OIML Certification System.
Another major initiative is the National Time Dissemination Project, known as “One Nation, One Time.” It aims to deliver accurate, traceable Indian Standard Time to critical sectors, including banking, telecommunications, and power systems.
Through these initiatives, India is highlighting its efforts to modernize measurement infrastructure, strengthen consumer safeguards, and support greater consistency in international trade.
