By …….Arvind Sharma , Sr. Columnist & Jounalist based in Dharamsala
The Himachal Pradesh government has taken a significant step toward consumer transparency by mandating that all hotels and restaurants in the state display the weight of food items served, alongside their prices, on menu cards.
This new directive, issued under the Consumer Protection Act and Legal Metrology Act, aims to eliminate confusion caused by vague quantity descriptions such as “half” and “full,” which often vary from one establishment to another. Going forward, dishes will be listed with their respective weights in grams, ensuring that customers know exactly how much they are getting for the price they pay.The move comes amidst growing public discourse on standardizing food portions and prices across the country.
Interestingly, BJP MP and actor Ravi Kishan, who represents the Gorakhpur constituency, recently raised a similar concern, questioning why items like SAMOSAS differ in size and cost from shop to shop. He argued for a “one country, one price” policy for such commonly consumed items.
Taking note of the broader concerns, the Himachal Pradesh Legal Metrology Department has directed hoteliers to revise their menus in accordance with the new guidelines before the next round of inspections.
“Now, when customers order dal makhani, matar paneer, chole bhature, or any dish, they will know exactly how many grams are being served,” said Praveen Siuta, Assistant Controller, Legal Metrology Department, Bilaspur. “This initiative will help ensure transparency and fairness for consumers across the state.”
The directive applies to all hotels and restaurants operating in Himachal Pradesh. Authorities have requested full cooperation from hospitality businesses to implement this change swiftly and uniformly.
