Chapter II - Standard Weights and Measures
Section 6
Section 6: Base unit of numeration
Section 6 uses the unit of the international form of Indian numerals and requires decimal numeration. Prescribed rules address multiples, sub-multiples and writing format.
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This article is for general information. Refer to the Legal Metrology Act, 2009 official text for the official provisions. If you need professional advice for your situation, contact Bizeneed.
Statutory text
Bare law
(1) The base unit of numeration shall be the unit of the international form of Indian numerals.
(2) Every numeration shall be made in accordance with the decimal system.
(3) The decimal multiples and sub-multiples of the numerals shall be of such denominations and be written in such manner as may be prescribed.
Introduction
Numeration concerns how quantities are numbered, independently of the physical unit being measured. Section 6 identifies the numeral form and decimal basis.
Section 7(2) makes the section 6 base unit the standard unit of numeration; section 11 governs transaction expressions.
Key takeaways
Scope and trigger
Numeration concerns how quantities are numbered, independently of the physical unit being measured. Section 6 identifies the numeral form and decimal basis.
Operational step
Check software and printed output from scales, pumps and invoices for the required numeral and decimal convention. Then verify any prescribed multiple, sub-multiple or notation rule.
Limit
A device can use the correct kilogram unit yet express a number incorrectly. Section 6 does not on its own specify every permitted font or display layout.
Who and what it covers
Numeration concerns how quantities are numbered, independently of the physical unit being measured. Section 6 identifies the numeral form and decimal basis.
Section 7(2) makes the section 6 base unit the standard unit of numeration; section 11 governs transaction expressions.
How to apply it
Check software and printed output from scales, pumps and invoices for the required numeral and decimal convention. Then verify any prescribed multiple, sub-multiple or notation rule.
Check numeral representation in measurement records, equipment displays and commercial documents against the current numeration rules.
Boundary and exceptions
A device can use the correct kilogram unit yet express a number incorrectly. Section 6 does not on its own specify every permitted font or display layout.
Hypothetical example
Hypothetical: a trader imports a scale display using a non-decimal counting convention. It checks configuration against section 6 before use in transactions.
Practical preparation
Check numeral representation in measurement records, equipment displays and commercial documents against the current numeration rules.
Primary sources
The statutory text is drawn from the official Act copy.
Practical checklist
Do
- Check that numerals follow the international form of Indian numerals.
- Confirm decimal presentation in equipment and records.
- Review prescribed denominations and writing requirements for multiples and sub-multiples.
Avoid
- Do not treat section 6 as dispensing with its stated conditions, exceptions or prescribed details.
Glossary
- Decimal system
- Numeration based on powers of ten.
- Prescribed
- Set by rules made under the Legal Metrology Act, 2009.
Frequently asked questions
Does section 6 prescribe every display format?
No. It establishes the base and decimal system while leaving detailed denominations and writing manner to rules.
Does this provision permit a non-decimal counting base?
No. Section 6(2) requires numeration in the decimal system.
Need help applying this provision to your situation?
Contact BizeneedLast updated 10 October 2026