Nadendla Wants W&M Department Modernised to Strengthen Consumer Trust

Vijayawada: State food, civil supplies, weights and measures minister Nadendla Manohar on Thursday called for a comprehensive modernisation of the Weights and Measures (W&M) department, urging officials to adopt technology-driven systems to improve consumer protection and public confidence.

Chairing a state-level review meeting with departmental officials at the Civil Supplies department headquarters, the minister said Weights and Measures department must evolve in line with the changing times and growing public awareness. He observed that the department, which directly serves consumers, has continued to function under an out-dated framework. Hence it requires innovative approaches and modern service delivery mechanisms.

Manohar directed officials, from the controller level to field inspectors, to undertake regular field visits and create awareness among consumers about fraud and malpractices in weighing and measuring systems. In particular, he stressed the need to protect farmers during the upcoming Kharif procuring season by conducting rigorous inspections to ensure accuracy in weighing processes and prevent unfair practices.

The minister asked the department to move beyond routine inspections and prosecution of violations, and instead proactively engage with the public. He called for adoption of advanced technologies capable of detecting counterfeit products, adulteration, and manipulation in weights and measures.

Referring to instances of food adulteration, under weighing and other irregularities, Manohar proposed reviving a dedicated task force to address such violations more effectively. He said even minor discrepancies in weights and measures could have serious consequences and should be tackled through scientific verification and legally sound procedures.

Recalling that his father had served as minister for Weights and Measures in 1978, Manohar noted his family’s long association with the department and reiterated his commitment to its modernisation. He directed officials to respond promptly to complaints raised on social media platforms, stating that quick action would enhance public trust and strengthen the department’s credibility.

The minister urged officials to keep pace with developments under the Legal Metrology Act, 2009, and align with the centre’s emphasis on Indian standards.

Assuring support to dedicated employees, Manohar said officers and staff delivering quality services with integrity would be encouraged and recognised. He underscored the need for corruption-free administration and effective enforcement.

Those who attended the meeting include Civil Supplies Corporation managing director S. Dilli Rao and Weights and Measures joint controller Krishna Chaitanya.