One Nation, One Time: India Set to Standardize Timekeeping with Legal Metrology Rules, 2024
In a landmark move to unify timekeeping practices nationwide, the Indian government has proposed the Legal Metrology (Indian Standard Time) Rules, 2024, making Indian Standard Time (IST) the sole time reference for all official and commercial platforms. The draft, released by the Consumer Affairs Ministry, is open for public feedback until February 14, 2025.
IST to Become the Official Time Reference
The proposed rules mandate the use of IST across critical sectors, including commerce, transport, public administration, financial operations, and legal contracts. Public institutions and government offices will also be required to prominently display IST, supported by synchronized systems to ensure accuracy, reliability, and cybersecurity.
Enhancing Critical Infrastructure
This initiative aims to strengthen time precision in critical infrastructure like telecommunications, banking, defence, and emerging technologies such as 5G and artificial intelligence. A senior government official highlighted the need for “nanosecond-level accuracy” in strategic and non-strategic sectors, emphasizing its importance in an increasingly digital and interconnected world.
Provisions, Penalties, and Exemptions
The draft rules prohibit the use of non-IST time references for official and commercial purposes, with certain exemptions for specialized fields like astronomy, navigation, and scientific research, provided they secure government approval. To ensure compliance, the government will conduct periodic audits, and violations may attract penalties.
Collaboration for a Reliable IST System
The Department of Consumer Affairs is collaborating with the National Physical Laboratory and ISRO to develop a robust system for generating and disseminating IST nationwide. This partnership is expected to bolster IST’s reliability and ensure uniformity across all sectors.
Public Feedback Invited
Stakeholders are encouraged to share their comments and suggestions on the draft rules by February 14, 2025, marking a pivotal step toward standardizing timekeeping practices in India.
