SRINAGAR: Another major reform has been brought in by the Government of Jammu & Kashmir in Legal Metrology by notifying the Jammu & Kashmir Legal Metrology Government Approved Test Centre (GATC) Rules, 2026. These rules are aimed at promoting Ease of Doing Business in J&K.

Government of Jammu & Kashmir introduced a landmark reform by notifying the Jammu & Kashmir Legal Metrology (Government Approved Test Centre) Rules, 2026. Government Approved Test Centres (GATC) are private entities who will be authorized by the Department to verify 12 specified categories of weights and measures. The verification fee for each of these categories of weights and measures is prescribed under the said rules.

Procedure for establishment of GATCs and qualification for being eligible to establish a GATC are also provided in these rules. GATCs and the UT Government will share the revenue @ 80 : 20 basis. GATCs are aimed at enhancing the outreach of the Department to cover untapped weights and measures and provide traders an option of private laboratories for getting the specified weights and measures verified from them.

These reforms build upon the recently launched initiatives including the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2026, increasing periodicity for re-verification of specified weights and measures through amendments in the Legal Metrology (General) Rules, 2011, business de-regulation in certain key areas and online service delivery mechanism through J&K Single Window System.

Pertinently, these measures address the key issues which have been pending from years. A strong legal foundation is expected to help the Department in enforcing the Legal Metrology Act, 2009 and the rules made there under in a fare and fearless manner thereby gaining trust of both business community as well as the consumers.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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