Govt Makes RSP Display Mandatory on All Pan Masala Packs
New Legal Metrology rules to boost consumer transparency and strengthen GST compliance from Feb 2026
- All pan masala packs must display Retail Sale Price (RSP) from 1 February 2026.
- Amendment removes earlier exemptions for small packs under 10 grams.
- Mandatory declarations under Legal Metrology Rules, 2011 now apply to every pack size.
- RSP mandate to support uniform GST assessment and revenue collection.
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 3rd Dec: The Department of Consumer Affairs has notified new amendments to the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, making it compulsory for all pan masala packs—regardless of size or weight—to display the Retail Sale Price (RSP) and all other mandatory declarations. The Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Second (Amendment) Rules, 2025, issued through G.S.R. 881(E), will take effect from 1 February 2026.
Once implemented, all manufacturers, packers and importers of pan masala must ensure full compliance with the revised norms. The notification was issued by Joint Secretary Anupam Mishra of the Department of Consumer Affairs.
Under the new amendments, small packs of 10 grams or less—previously exempt from printing RSP—must now carry clear price information. All declarations required under the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011, will apply uniformly across all pack sizes. The earlier proviso under Rule 26(a), which allowed exemptions for small packs, has been withdrawn and replaced with a pan masala–specific proviso ensuring full transparency.
According to the Department, the changes strengthen consumer protection by preventing misleading or deceptive pricing, particularly on small packs. The move ensures buyers have clear and accurate pricing information and can make informed purchasing decisions.
The amendment also supports GST compliance by enabling uniform application of the RSP-based GST levy on pan masala. With RSP mandated on every pack, authorities can more effectively enforce GST Council decisions, ensure proper tax assessment and streamline revenue collection across all unit sizes, including the smallest packs.
Officials said the revised rules mark a step forward in consumer transparency and regulatory consistency in the pan masala sector.
