Customs, Excise and Service Tax Appellate Tribunal (CESTAT) (hereinafter referred to as ‘the Tribunal’) holding that the coconut oil manufactured and packed in “small containers” by the respondent(s)­assessee(s) is classifiable under Heading 1513 and not under Heading 3305 of the Central Excise Tariff Act, 1985 = the coconut oil in small packings in respect of which the present dispute with regard to classification has arisen is more appropriately classifiable under Chapter 15, Heading 1513 and not under Chapter 33, Heading 3305.

1
REPORTABLE
IN THE SUPREME COURT OF INDIA
CIVIL APPELLATE JURISDICTION
CIVIL APPEAL NO.1766 OF 2009
COMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE            ...APPELLANT
      VERSUS
MADHAN AGRO INDUSTRIES (I) PVT. LTD.   ...RESPONDENT
WITH
CIVIL APPEAL Nos.6703­6710 OF 2009
J U D G M E N T
RANJAN GOGOI, J.
1.          Aggrieved by the orders passed by the Customs,
Excise   and   Service   Tax   Appellate   Tribunal   (CESTAT)
(hereinafter referred to as ‘the Tribunal’) holding that the
coconut   oil   manufactured   and   packed   in   “small
containers” by the respondent(s)­assessee(s) is classifiable
under Heading 1513 and not under Heading 3305 of the
Central Excise Tariff Act, 1985 (hereinafter referred to as
‘the Act’), the Revenue is in appeal before us.
2
2. The dispute is with regard to classification of
coconut   oil   in   packings   upto   2   litres   in   case   of   M/S
Madhan Agro Industries the respondent­assessee in Civil
Appeal No.1766 of 2009 and packings upto 500ml in case
of the respondent(s)­assessee(s) in the connected appeals
i.e.   Civil   Appeal   Nos.6703­6710   of   2009.   The   relevant
period   of   assessment   in   all   the   appeals   under
consideration   is   subsequent   to   the   amendment   of   the
First Schedule to the Central Excise Tariff Act, 1985 by
the Amendment Act of 2004 (5 of 2005) which came into
force on 28.2.2005.
3. The facts, in brief, may be noted at the outset:
The respondent­asessee in Civil Appeal No.1766
of 2009 i.e. M/S Madhan Agro Industries Private Limited
is/was   a   manufacturer   of   100%   pure   coconut   oil
marketed   under   the   brand   name   “Shanthi”.     In   Civil
Appeal Nos.6703­6710 of 2009 the assesses are four jobworkers
of M/S Marico Limited who had received 100%
pure   coconut   oil   from   Marico   Limited   in   bulk   and
thereafter had packed the same in small packages which
3
were supplied back to Marico as per dispatch schedules
issued.   The packages in question carried a declaration
that they contain 100% pure coconut oil.  The trademark
“Parachute”   is   also   inscribed   on   the   packs.     In   Civil
Appeal   No.1766   of   2009,   the   packings   also   included
pouches of 5 ml.  All the packs are marked as “edible oil”.
4. It may also be noticed at this stage that the
packing sizes conform to the requirement of Clause 5 of
Schedule I of the Edible Oil packaging (Regulation) Order
1998 read with serial No.10 Schedule III of the Standards
of Weights and Measures (packaged commodities) Rules
1977.
5. While the assessee(s) contended that coconut oil
in small packings is also classifiable as coconut oil under
Heading 1513 the revenue claimed classification of the
said   products  as   “hair   oil”   under   Heading   3305   while
conceding that coconut oil in large packings i.e. beyond 2
Kgs. merited classification under Heading 1513.  This is
the core dispute between the parties in the present case. 
6. The   relevant   Headings   before   and   after   the
4
Amendment of the Central Excise Tariff Act effective 28­
02­2005   will require a specific notice and is therefore
extracted below:
BEFORE AMENDMENT
CHAPTER 15 
ANIMAL OR VEGETABLE FATS AND OILS AND THEIR CLEAVAGE PRODUCTS;
PREPARED EDIBLE FATS; ANIMAL OR VEGETABLE WAXES 
NOTES
1. This Chapter does not cover :
(a) pig fat or poultry fat;
(b) cocoa butter, fat and oil (Chapter 18);
(c) Edible preparations of Chapter 21;
(d) Greaves and residues of Chapter 23;
(e)  Fatty  acids,  prepared  waxes,  medicaments,  paints,  varnishes,
soap, perfumery, cosmetic or toilet preparations, sulphonated oils
or other goods of Section VI; or
(f)    Factice derived from oils (Chapter 40).
2. Soap­stocks, oil foots and dregs, stearin pitch, glycerol pitch and wool
grease residues fall in heading No.15.07
3. In this Chapter, the expression ‘fixed vegetable oils’ means oils which
cannot easily be distilled without decomposition, which are not volatile
and   which   cannot   be   carried   off   by   superheated   steam   (which
decomposes and saponifies them).
4. In   relation   to   the   products   of   sub­heading   Nos.1502.00,   1503.00,
1504.00   and   1508.90,   labeling   or   relabeling   of   containers   and
repacking from bulk packs to retail packs or the adoption of any other
treatment to render the product marketable to the consumer, shall
amount to “manufacture”.
Heading
No.
Sub­heading
No.
Description of goods Rate of
duty
15.01 1501.00 Animal   (including   fish)   fats   and   oils, Nil
5
crude, refined or purified
15.02 1502.00 Fixed vegetable oils, the following, namely
cotton seed oil, neem seed oil, karanj oil,
silk cotton seed oil, rice bran oil, khakhan
oil,   palm   oil,   water   melon   oil,   sal   oil,
mahua   oil,   kusum   oil,   rubber   seed   oil,
mango kernel oil, kokum oil, dhupa oil,
undi oil, maroti oil, pisa oil and nahor oil,
and their fractions.
8%
15.03 1503.00 Fixed vegetable oils, other than those of
heading No.15.02
8%
15.04 1504.00 Vegetable fats and oils and their fractions,
partly   or   wholly   hydrogenated,   interesterified,
  re­esterified   or   elaidinised,
whether   or   not   refined   but   not   further
prepared.
8%
15.05 33.03.00 Omitted 8%
15.06 1506.00 Glycerol,   Crude,   Glycerol   Waters   and
Glycerol lyes
16%
15.07 1507.00 Vegetable waxes (other than triglycerides),
beeswax,   other   insect   waxes   and
spermaceti,   whether   or   not   refined   or
coloured; degras; residues resulting from
the   treatment   of   fatty   substances   of
animal or vegetable waxes
16%
15.08 Margarine;   edible   mixtures   or
preparations of animal or vegetables fats;
animal or vegetable fats and oils, boiled,
oxidized, dehydrated, sulphurised, blown,
polymerized by heat in vacuum or in inert
gas   or   otherwise   chemically   modified;
inedible mixtures or preparations of fats
and oils of this Chapter
16%
1508.10 ­Linoxyn 16%
1508.90 ­Other 8%
BEFORE AMENDMENT
CHAPTER 33
ESSENTIAL OILS AND RESINOIDS; PERFUMERY, COSMETIC OR
TOILET PREPARATIONS
Notes :
1. This Chapter does not cover :
6
(a) Natural oleoresins or vegetable extracts of heading No.13.01;
(b)    Soap or other products of heading 34.01;
(c)    Gum, wood or sulphate turpentine or other products of Chapter 38; or
(d)   Perfumery, cosmetics and toilet preparations containing alcohol or
opium,   Indian   hemp   or   other   narcotics   and   for   this   purpose,   these
expressions have the meanings respectively assigned to them in Section 2
of the Medicinal and Toilet Preparations (Excise Duties) Act, 1955 (16 of
1955).
2.  Heading Nos.33.03 to 33.07 apply, inter alia, to
products, whether  or not  mixed  (other  than  aqueous
distilltes   and   aqueous   solutions   of   essential   oils),
suitable for use as goods of these headings and put up
in packings with labels, literature or other indications
that   they   are   for   use   as   cosmetics   or   toilet
preparations or put up in a form clearly specialised to
such use and includes  products whether  or not they
contain   subsidiary   pharmaceutical   or   antiseptic
constituents,   or   are   held   out   as   having   subsidiary
curative or prophylactic value.
3. The ‘perfumery, cosmetic or toilet preparations’ in heading No.33.07
applies,  inter alia, to the following products : scented sachets; perfumed
papers and papers impregnated or coated with cosmetics; contact lens or
artificial eye solutions; wadding, felt and nonwovens, impregnated, coated
or covered with perfume or cosmetics; animal toilet preparations.
4. In relation to products of heading Nos.33.03, 33.04 and 33.05,
conversion of powder into tablets, labelling or relabelling of containers
intended for consumers or repacking from bulk packs to retail packs or the
adoption of any other treatment to render the products marketable to the
consumer, shall be construed as ‘manufacture’
5. Heading No.33.04 applies, inter alia, to the following products :
beauty creams, vanishing creams, cold creams, make­up creams, cleansing
creams, skinfoods, skin tonics, face powders, baby powders, toilet powders,
talcum powders and grease paints, lipsticks, eye shadow and eyebrow
pencils,   nail   polishes   and   varnishes,   cuticle   removers   and   other
preparations for use in manicure or chiropody and barrier creams to give
protection against skin irritants.
6. Heading   No.33.05   applies,   inter   alia,   to   the   following   products;
brilliantines, perfumed hair oils, hair lotions, pomades and creams, hair
dyes (in whatever form), shampoos, whether or   not containing soap or
organic surface active agents.
7. The expression “odoriferous substances” in heading 33.02 refers
only to the substances of heading No.33.01 to odoriferous constituents
isolated from those substances or to synthetic aromatics.
7
Chapter 33    Cosmetic or toilet preparations, essential oils etc.
Heading
No.
Sub­heading
No.
Description of goods Rate of
duty
33.05 Preparations for use on the hair
3305.10 ­Perfumed for use on the hair
­Other
16%
3305.91 ­Hair fixer 16%
3305.99 ­Other 16%
POST   AMENDMENT
CHAPTER 15
Animal or Vegetable fats and Oils and their cleavage products; prepared edible
fats; Animal or Vegetable Waxes
NOTES
1. This Chapter does not cover :
(a) pig fat or poultry fat of heading 0209;
(b) cocoa butter, fat or oil (heading 1804);
(c) edible preparations containing by weight more than 15% of the
products of heading 0405 (generally Chapter 21);
(d) greaves (heading 2301) or residues of headings 2304 to 2306;
(e)   fatty   acids,   prepared   waxes,   medicaments,
paints,   varnishes,   soap,   perfumery,   cosmetic   or
toilet preparations, sulphonated oils or other goods
of Section VI; or
(f)    factice derived from oils (heading 4002).
2. Heading 1509 does not apply to oils obtained from olives by solvent
extraction (heading 1510).
3. Heading 1518 does not cover fats or oils or their fractions, merely
denatured, which are to be classified in the heading appropriate to the
corresponding undenatured fats and oils and their fractions.
4. Soap stocks, oil foots and dregs, stearin pitch, glycerol pitch and wool
grease residues fall in heading 1522.
5. In relation to the products of heading 1507 or 1508 or 1509 or 1510 or
8
1511 or 1512 or 1513 or 1514 or 1515, or 1518; sub­heading 1516 20 or
1517 90; or tariff item 1517 10 10 or 1517 10 21 or 1517 10 29, labelling
or relabelling of containers or repacking from bulk packs to retail packs or
the adoption of any other treatment to render the product marketable to
the consumer, shall amount to ‘manufacture’.
6.  In relation to refined edible vegetable oils falling under headings
1507 to 1515, the process of refining, that is to say, any one or more of the
processes, namely, treatment of crude oil with an alkali, bleaching and
deodorisation, shall amount to 'manufacture'.
Sub­heading Note :
1. For   the   purpose   of   sub­headings   1514   11   and   1514   19,   the
expression “low erucic acid rape or colza oil” means the fixed oil
which has an erucic acid content of less than 2% by weight.
Supplementary Notes :
1.  In this Chapter, “edible grade”, in respect of a goods (i.e. edible oil)
specified in Appendix B to the Prevention of Food Adulteration Rules, 1955,
means the standard of quality specified for such goods in that Appendix.
2.  In this Chapter, “fixed vegetable oil” means oils which cannot easily
be distilled without decomposition, which are not volatile and which cannot
be carried off by superheated steam (which decomposes and saponifies
them).
Tariff Item Description of Goods Unit Rate
of
duty
1513 Coconut (copra), plam kernet or babassu oil
and fractions thereof, whether or not refined,
but not chemically modified
­Coconut (copra) oil and its fractions :
1513 11 00 ­Crude oil kg. 8%
1513 19 00 ­Other
­Palm   kernel   or   babassu   oil   and   fractions
thereof:
kg. 8%
1513 21 ­Crude oil :
1513 21 10  ­Palm kernel oil kg. 8%
1513 21 20 ­Babassu oil kg. 8%
1513 29 ­Other
1513 29 10 ­Palm kernel oil and its fractions kg. 8%
1513 29 20 ­Babassu oil and its fractions edible grade kg. 8%
1513 29 30 ­Babassu   oil   and   its   fractions,   other   than
edible grade
kg. 8%
1513 29 90 ­Other kg. 8%
9
    POST   AMENDMENT
CHAPTER 33
Essential Oils and Resinoids, Perfumery, Cosmetic or Toilet
Preparations
NOTES
1. This Chapter does not cover:
a) natural oleoresins or vegetable extracts of heading 1301 or 1302;
(b) soap or other products of heading 3401;
(c) gum, wood or sulphate turpentine or other products of heading 3805;
or
(d) perfumery, cosmetics and toilet preparations containing alcohol or
opium,   Indian   hemp   or   other   narcotics   and   for   this   purpose,   these
expressions have the meanings respectively assigned to them in section 2
of the Medicinal and Toilet Preparations (Excise Duties) Act, 1955 (16 of
1955).
2. The expression “odoriferous substances” in heading 3302 refers only
to the substances of heading 3301, to odoriferous constituents isolated
from those substances or to synthetic aromatics.
3.   Headings   3303   to   3307   apply,   inter   alia,   to
products, whether or not mixed (other than aqueous
distillates   and  aqueous   solutions  of   essential  oils),
suitable for use as goods of these headings and put
up in packings of a kind sold by retail for such use.
4. The expression “perfumery, cosmetic or toilet preparations” in heading
3307   applies, inter   alia,   to   the   following   products:   cented   sachets;
odoriferous preparations which operate by burning; perfumed papers
and   papers   impregnated   or   coated   with   cosmetics;   contact   lens   or
artificial eye solution; wadding, felt and nonwovens, impregnated, coated
or covered with perfume or cosmetics; animal toilet preparations.
5. In relation to products of headings 3303, 3304 and 3305, conversion
of powder into tablets, labelling or relabelling of containers intended for
consumers or repacking from bulk packs to retail packs or the adoption
of   any   other   treatment   to   render   the   products   marketable   to   the
consumer, shall be construed as ‘manufacture’.
Tariff Item Description of Goods Unit Rate
of
10
duty
3305 Preparations for use on the hair
3305 10 ­Shampoos : kg. 16%
3305 10 10 – Containing spirit kg. 16%
3305 10 90 – Other
3305 20 00 ­Preparations   for   permanent   waving   or
straightening
kg. 16%
3305 30 00 ­Hair lacquer
3305 90 ­Other :
– Hair oil :
3305 90 11  – Perfumed kg. 16%
3305 90 19 ­­Other kg. 16%
3305 90 20 – Brilliantines (spirituous) kg. 16%
3305 90 30 – Hair cream kg. 16%
3305 90 40 – Hair dyes (natural, herbal or synthetic) kg. 16%
3305 90 50  – Hair fixers kg. 16%
3305 90 90 – Other  kg. 16%
7. We   may   now   take   note   of   the   arguments
advanced on behalf of the rival parties:
Shri Panda, learned Senior Counsel appearing
for the appellant­Union of India has urged that a process
of   interpretation   and   consideration   of   the   Rules   of
General   Interpretation   and   relevant   Chapter   Notes
contained in the Act alongwith the results of the market
survey undertaken  by the  Revenue  would  lead to  the
conclusion that classification claimed by the Revenue is
fully justified and learned Tribunal (CESTAT) was not
correct in rejecting the same. Specifically, Shri Panda has
11
referred   to   the   Rule   1   of   the   General   Rules   for   the
Interpretation of the Schedule to the Tariff Act; Chapter
Note 1 (e) to 15; Section Note 2 to Section VI and Chapter
Note   3   to   Chapter   33   in   support   of   the   contentions
advanced.  Apart from relying on the aforesaid provisions
of the Act, Shri Panda has submitted before the Court
that   an   elaborate   market   survey   of   the   product
undertaken   had   indicated   that   coconut   oil   in   smaller
packages are understood in the market and purchased as
‘hair   oil’   and   not   as   ‘edible   oil’.     Relying   on   several
decisions of this Court, the details of which would be
noticed   later,   Shri   Panda   has   submitted   that
classification  of the product must follow  the Common
Parlance Test in which event the coconut oil in dispute is
eminently classifiable under Chapter 33, Heading 3305
and not under Chapter 15, Heading 1513 as claimed by
the assessee. 
8. On the other hand, Shri Bagaria, learned Senior
Counsel   for   the   respondents­assessees   has   submitted
that none of the provisions relating to Interpretation of
the Schedule to the Act and the Chapter Notes relied
12
upon by the Revenue would be applicable and relevant to
the present case so as to warrant classification of the
product   under   Chapter   33.     Infact,   Shri   Bagaria   has
urged   that   prior   to   the   coming   into   force   of   the
Amendment Act 5 of 2005, the classification of coconut
oil was claimed and allowed under Chapter 15 Heading
1503 which dealt with Fixed vegetable  oils.   It is only
after   the   amendment   that   Heading   1513   was
incorporated dealing specifically with coconut oil.    Shri
Bagaria has also pointed out that amendment made in
the year 2005 effective from 28.02.2005 was for the sole
purpose of fine tuning of the tariff with the Harmonised
System   of   Nomenclature   (HSN).     In   this   regard,   Shri
Bagaria has drawn attention to the Statement of Objects
and Reasons of the Amendment Bill wherein it had been
clearly   stated   that   the  “Department   of   Revenue   has
developed   eight   digit   classification   code   based   on
Harmonised   System   of   Nomenclature   (HSN)   for   the
purpose of classification of excisable goods in India”. Shri
Bagaria has also drawn attention of the Court to the fact
that in the aforesaid Objects and Reasons, it has been
13
further stated that  “the proposed amendment does not
make any change in the existing rates of the central excise
duties and hence the proposed changes do not involve
revenue implication”. 
9. Referring to the provisions of General Rules for
Interpretation and the Chapter and Section Notes relied
upon by Shri Panda and drawing the attention of the
Court to the Chapter Note 3 and Explanatory Note to
Chapter   Note   3   in   the   Harmonised   System   of
Nomenclature (HSN),   Shri Bagaria has submitted that
there is no manner of doubt that coconut oil, regardless
of the size of packings, is classifiable under Chapter 15 of
the Tariff Act and by no means, even remotely, under
Chapter 33, specifically  Heading 33.05 which deals with
“preparations for use on the hair”.   In this regard Shri
Bagaria has contended that there is no dispute on the
fact that on all the packages of coconut oil cleared by or
on  behalf  of  the   respondents­assesses,  the   inscription
“edible   oil”  has   been   clearly   affixed   and   there   is   no
advertisement/declaration/   representation   to   the   effect
that the coconut oil is meant or intended for used as hair
14
oil.     In this regard, Shri Bagaria has also drawn the
attention   of   the   Court   to   Central   Excise   Notification
No.145/56/95­CX   dated   31.08.1995   whereby   the
following points were clarified by the CBEC in paragraphs
5 to  9 of the Circular with regard to classification  of
coconut oil prior to the Amendment of the Act in the Year
2005 :
(i) The Heading 33.05 covers “preparations for use on the
hair”.  Coconut oil is not a preparation for use on the hair.  It is
fixed vegetable oil capable of being used as cooking medium (or
for other purposes including for application on the hair).  In the
absence of any proof that it is specially prepared for use on the
hair or any label/literature/indications on the containers to that
effect,   the   subject   goods   cannot   be   classified   under   heading
3305 simply because they were packed in small containers and
applied by some sections of the society on the hair.
(ii) Coconut oil, whether pure or refined and whether packed
in small or large containers merits classification under Heading
1503.
(iii) Only   if   the   containers   bear   labels/literatures   etc.
indicating that it is meant for application on hair as specified in
Note   2   of   Chapter   33   and/or   if   the   coconut   oil   is   used   as
additives   or   has   undergone   a   process   which   make   it   a
“preparation   for   use   on   hair”,   that   coconut   oil   may   merit
classification under Chapter 33.
10. It is submitted that having regard to the object
behind the Amendment effected in the year 2005,   the
efficacy   of   the   above   circular,   though   issued   when
Chapter No.2 of Chapter 33 (already extracted) was in
force, would continue even in the post amendment era
when Chapter No.2 has now been substituted by Note 3
15
(Chapter 33).
11. An order dated 03.06.2009 of the Central Board
of Excise and Customs (CBEC) under Section 37B of the
Central Excise Act has been placed before us.  The said
order is to the effect that  if coconut  oil is packed in
containers upto 200 ml it may be considered generally for
use as hair oil.   If, however, the same coconut oil is
packed in one litre or two litres pack, classification would
be under Chapter 15 as coconut oil.    It has been urged
by Shri Bagaria that the learned Appellate Tribunal in
Rajasthan   Oil   Mills   Vs.   Commissioner   of   Central
Excise1
 had taken the view that repacking of coconut oil
from bulk containers in retail pack of 200 ml or less
would not make the item classifiable under Chapter 33.
It is submitted that the Revenue’s Appeal against the
aforesaid order of the learned Tribunal i.e. Civil appeal
Nos.2023­2037 of 2014 has been dismissed by this Court
by Order dated 07­12­2014 following which the CBEC
has issued another circular bearing no.1007/14/2015­
CX dated 12­10­2015   withdrawing the earlier Circular
12014 (314) ELT 541 (Tribunal)
16
dated   03­06­2009   and   directing   that   the   issue   of
classification may be decided by the field officers “taking
into consideration the facts of the case read with the
judicial pronouncements”.
12. Disputes with regard to classification may arise
in different situations and circumstances.   Whether a
particular item/product would fall under one or the other
Chapter/Heading of a Chapter is one such situation.  A
dispute may also arise on a claim that though the item
falls within a particular Heading, owing to multifarious
reasons,   some   part   of   the   same   item   may   fall   under
another   Heading   of   the   same   Chapter   or   a   different
Chapter   altogether.   All   disputes   with   regard   to
classification of goods manufactured and cleared has to
be primarily decided and resolved within the frame work
of the Act and on the basis of Rules for Interpretation and
the   various   Chapter   Notes   and   Supplementary   Notes
contained in the Tariff Act.   The understanding of the
CBEC and other authorities exercising jurisdiction under
the Act in respect of the Rules for Interpretation and the
Chapter   Notes,   as   may   be   reflected   in   the
17
Circulars/Memos issued from time to time, can be an
useful   aid   in   understanding   and   resolving   disputed
issues   of   classification.   The   Harmonised   System   of
Nomenclature   (HSN)   and   the   Chapter   Notes   and
Explanatory Notes thereto, on which the Tariff Act has
been remodelled by the Amendment, has been repeatedly
acknowledged   by   this   Court   to   be   a   safe   guide   for
resolution of disputes with regard to classification under
the Tariff Act. The opinions rendered by this Court in
Collector of Central Excise, Shillong Vs. Wood Craft
Products   Ltd.2
; Commissioner   of   Customs   and
Central   Excise,   Goa   Vs.   Phil   Corporation   Limited3
;
O.K.   Play   (India)   Ltd.   Vs.   Commissioner   of   Central
Excise, Delhi­III, Gurgaon4
 may be illustratively referred
to in this regard.  These are the different tools that would
be   available   to   the   Court   to   deal   with   disputes   with
regard to classification which must be resorted to in the
first instance.
13. To what extent the common parlance test would
2
(1995) 3 SCC 454
3
(2008) 17 SCC 569
4
(2005) 2 SCC 460
18
be   applicable   in   determining   the   classification   of   the
product in question is the first question that may be dealt
in view of the very emphatic arguments made on behalf of
the Revenue on this question.
14. Shri A.K. Panda, learned Senior Counsel for the
Revenue   has   urged   that   a   detailed   market   survey
undertaken by the Revenue indicated that the consumers
who purchase “coconut oil” in small containers invariably
make the said purchase for use as hair oil and not as
edible oil. It has, therefore, been urged by Shri Panda
that   the   product   in   dispute   in   the   present   case   i.e.
“coconut oil” in small packings should be classified under
Heading 3305 and not under Heading 1513.  To support
the   contention   advanced   Shri   Panda   has   referred   to
several   pronouncements   of   this   Court   wherein   it   has
been held that the object of classification of goods for the
purpose of Central Excise and other Fiscal Legislation is
to   raise   the   revenue   and,   therefore,   scientific   and
technical meaning must be avoided and the particular
product as understood in trade and in common parlance
should be preferred.
19
15. In  Indo­International   Industries   vs.
Commissioner of Sales Tax, U.P.
5 where the common
parlance   test   was   adopted   to   resolve   the   dispute   of
classification this Court was dealing with the question as
to   whether   hypodermic   clinical   syringes   could   be
regarded as “glass ware” under Entry No.39 of the First
Schedule to the U.P. Sales Tax Act, 1948.
16. Similarly,   in  Asian   Paints   India   Ltd.   vs.
Collector   of   Central   Excise6
the question before this
Court   was   whether   “Decoplast”   manufactured   by   the
Asian Paints India Ltd.  was classifiable under Tariff Item
No. 14(1)(3)(iv) of the First Schedule of the Central Excise
Tariff as “plastic emulsion paint” or under Tariff Item
No.14(1)(v) as “paints not otherwise specified”.
17. In  Shree   Baidyanath   Ayurved   Bhavan   Ltd.
vs.   Collector   of   Central   Excise,   Nagpur7
the   issue
before this Court was as to whether Dant Manjan Lal
manufactured by the Assessee was medicine so as to be
5
1981 (8) E.L.T. 325 (S.C.)
6
1988 (35) E.L.T. 3 (S.C.)
7
(1996) 9 SCC 402
20
covered   by   Exemption   Notification   No.62/78­CE   dated
1st March, 1978 or a toilet preparation. 
18. In Alpine Industries vs. Collector  of Central
Excise,   New   Delhi8
the   question   that   arose   for
consideration before this Court was whether “Lip Salve” is
classifiable under Heading 33.04 of the Central Excise
Tariff Act, 1985 as “a preparation for care of skin” or
whether as a “medicament” under Heading 30.03 thereof.
19. In all the aforesaid decisions, this Court has
held that­ [Paragraph 5 in Alpine Industries (supra)]:
“5. It   is   well   established   that   in
interpreting   tariff   entries   in   taxation
statute   like   the   Excise   Act,   where   the
primary object is to raise revenue and for
that   purpose   various   products   are
differently classified, the entries are not to
be   understood   in   their   scientific   and
technical   meaning.     The   terms   and
expressions   used   in   tariff   have   to   be
understood by their popular meaning that
is the meaning that is attached to them by
those using the product.  See the decision
of   the   Supreme   Court   on   the   dispute
regarding classification for excise duty, the
product – Lal Dant Manjan manufactured
by Shree Baidyanath Ayurved Bhavan Ltd.
reported in the case of Shree Baidyanath
Ayurved   Bhavan   Ltd.   v.   CCE9
.     The
8
(2003) 3 SCC 111
9
 (1996) 9 SCC 402
21
manufacturer claimed the product to be an
Ayurvedic   medicinal   preparation   product
for dental care.   The view of the Tribunal
was upheld by this Court by holding (at
SCC pp.404­05, para 3) that “ordinarily a
medicine   is   prescribed   by   a   medical
practitioner   and   it  is   used   for   a  limited
time   and   not   every   day   unless   it   is   so
prescribed to deal with a specific disease
like diabetes”.”
20. A consideration of the facts of the cases, referred
to   above,   however,   would   go   to   show   that   the   basic
dispute/conflict in the said cases was whether a product
which was not defined or specifically dealt with by any of
the Headings/Entries would fall under one or another
Heading/Entry   of   the   Central   Excise   Tariff   Act. The
present is not a case where the identity of the product
would require any debate as was the issue in the cases
referred to above where the common parlance test was
applied.  In the present case, the product is “coconut oil”,
which is clearly covered by Chapter Heading 1513 and
not by Chapter Heading 3305. What calls for a decision in
the present case is whether “coconut oil” which otherwise
is covered by Heading 1513 of Chapter 15, if packed in
small containers and pouches/sachets, would cease to be
“coconut  oil” falling under Chapter Heading 1513 and
22
would be covered by Heading “preparations for use on the
hair” covered by Entry 3305 of Chapter 33. This is a
question which has to be resolved not on the basis of the
perception of the consumer or the customer but on the
basis   of   the   headings   and   sub­headings   and   on   an
interpretation of the provisions of the relevant Chapter
Notes,   if   required.   Issues   of   classification   have   to   be
resolved within the framework of the statutory provision.
“Coconut oil” packed in small packages/containers does
not cease to be “coconut oil” and become “hair oil” though
such “coconut oil” may be capable of being used for both
purposes.   The   understanding   of   the   product   in   the
market or amongst the consumers will always have a
limited role in this regard.   The above has been the view
of   this   Court   in  O.K.   Play   (India)   Ltd.     Vs.
Commissioner   of   Central   Excise,   Delhi­III,   Gurgaon
(supra)  (para 13) and  Commissioner   of   Customs  and
Central Excise, Goa Vs. Phil Corporation Ltd. (supra)
(para 17).
21.      We may now turn to examine the General Rules
23
for Interpretation and the Chapter Notes relied upon by
the Revenue.
“[THE FIRST SCHEDULE] – EXCISE TARIFF
RULES FOR THE INTERPRETATION OF THIS SCHEDULE
1. The titles of Sections and Chapters are provided for ease of reference
only; for legal purposes, classification shall be determined according to
the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes and,
provided such headings or Notes do not otherwise require, according to
the provisions hereinafter contained.
2.   (a)   Any reference in a heading to goods shall be taken to include a
reference to those goods incomplete or unfinished, provided that, the
incomplete   or   unfinished   goods   have   the   essential   character   of   the
complete or finished goods. It shall also be taken to include a reference
to those goods complete or finished (or falling to be classified as complete
or finished by virtue of this rule), removed unassembled or disassembled.
(b) Any reference in a heading to a material or substance shall be taken
to include a reference to mixtures or combinations of that material or
substance with other materials or substances. Any reference to goods of
a given material or substance shall be taken to include a reference to
goods consisting wholly or partly of such material or substance. The
classification of goods consisting of more than one material or substance
shall be according to the principles contained in Rule 3.
3.   When by application of sub­rule (b) of rule 2 or for any other reason,
goods   are,  prima   facie,   classifiable   under   two   or   more   headings,
classification shall be effected as follows:
(a) The heading which provides the most specific description shall be
preferred to headings providing a more general description. However,
when two or more headings each refer to part only of the materials or
substances contained in mixed or composite goods or to part only of the
items in a set sale, those headings are to be regarded as equally specific
in relation to those goods, even if one of them gives a more complete or
precise description of the goods.
(b) mixtures, composite goods consisting of different materials or made
up of different components, and goods put up in sets for retail sale,
which cannot be classified by reference to (a), shall be classified as if
they consisted of the material or component which gives them their
essential character, insofar as this criterion is applicable.
(c) when goods cannot be classified by reference to (a) or (b), they shall be
classified under the heading which occurs last in numerical order among
those which equally merit consideration.
4. Goods which cannot be classified in accordance with the above rules
shall be classified under the heading appropriate to the goods to which
they are most akin.
5. For legal purposes, the classification of goods in the sub­headings of a
heading   shall   be   determined   according   to   the   terms   of   those   subheadings
and any related sub­heading Notes and, mutatis mutandis, to
the above rules, on the understanding that only sub­headings at the
same level are comparable. For the purposes of this rule the relative
Section  and  Chapter  Notes  also  apply,  unless  the  context  otherwise
24
requires.
Chapter Note 1(e) to Chapter 15
CHAPTER 15
Animal   or   Vegetable   fats   and   Oils   and   their   cleavage   products;
prepared edible fats; Animal or Vegetable Waxes
NOTES
1. This Chapter does not cover :
(a)  xxxxxx
(b) xxxxxx
(c) xxxxxx
(d) xxxxxxxx
(e) fatty acids, prepared waxes, medicaments, paints, varnishes,
soap, perfumery, cosmetic or toilet preparations, sulphonated oils
or other goods of Section VI; or”
­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­
SECTION NOTE II  to SECTION VI
SECTION VI
PRODUCT OF THE CHEMICAL OR ALLIED INDUSTRIES
Notes :
1. xxxxxx
2. Subject to Note 1 above, goods classifiable in heading 3004, 3005,
3006, 3212, 3303, 3304, 3305, 3306, 3307, 3506, 3707 or 3808 by
reason of being put up in measured doses or for retail sale are to be
classified in those headings and in no other heading of this Schedule.
­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­
Chapter Note 3 to Chapter 33
CHAPTER 33
ESSENTIAL OILS AND RESINOIDS; PERFUMERY, COSMETIC OR
TOILET PREPARATIONS
Notes :
1. xxxxx
2.  xxxxx
3. Headings 3303 to 3307 apply, inter alia, to products, whether or
not   mixed   (other   than   aqueous   distillates   and   aqueous   solutions   of
25
essential oils), suitable for use as goods of these headings and put up in
packings of a kind sold by retail for such use.
22. It has already been noticed that under the preamended
provisions of the Act coconut oil was not covered
by any specific Heading and had been classified under
Heading 15.03 which dealt with fixed vegetable oils, other
than those of heading No.15.02. 
23. On   the   other   hand   prior   to   the   amendment
Heading 33.05 dealing with preparations for use on the
hair was in the following terms:
­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­
33.05 Preparations for use on the hair
3305.10 ­­Perfumed hair oils 16%
­­Other :
3305.91 –Hair fixer 16%
3305.99 ­Other 16%
­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­
24. Heading   15.13   of   the   Harmonised   System   of
Nomenclature (HSN) specifically deals with coconut oil in
the following manner:
“15.13   COCONUT   (COPRA),   PALM   KERNEL   OR   BABASSU   OIL   AND
FRACTIONS   THEREOF,   WHETHER   OR   NOT   REFINED,   BUT   NOT
CHEMICALLY MODIFIED (+)
­ Coconut (copra) oil and its fractions :
1513.11 ­  Crude oil
1513.19 ­  Other
­ Palm kernel or babassu oil and fractions thereof:
1513.21 ­ Crude oil
1513.29 ­ Other”
26
25. Heading 33.05 of the HSN is in the following terms:
“33.05  ­  PREPARATIONS FOR USE ON THE HAIR
3305.10 ­ Shampoos
3305.20 ­ Preparation for permanent waving or straightening
3305.30 ­ Hair lacquers
3305.90 ­ Other
The Heading covers :
(1) Shampoos, containing soap or other organic surface­active agents
(see Note 1(c) to Chapter 34), and other shampoos. All these shampoos
may contain subsidiary pharmaceutical or disinfectant constituents, even
if they have therapeutic or prophylactic properties (see Note 1(d) to Chapter
30)
(2) Preparations for permanent waving or straightening
(3) Hair lacquers (sometimes known as “hair sprays”)
(4)  Other hair preparations, such as brilliantines, hair oils, creams
(“pomades”)   and   dressings:   hair   dyes   and   bleaches   used   on   the   hair,
cream­rinses.
26.   After   coming   into   force   of   the   amendment,
Headings 1513 and 3305 in Chapters 15 and 33 virtually
incorporated   the   contents   of   the   Headings   and   subheadings
  as   contained   in   the   Harmonised   System   of
Nomenclature   (HSN).       The   position   that   is   noticeable
following the amendment of the Tariff Act is that a specific
Heading for coconut oil has been introduced in the Tariff
Act.     So   far   as  “preparation   for   use   on   the   hair”  is
concerned,   the   sub­headings   have   made   various   such
items more specific.  Significantly and noticeably coconut
oil as a preparation for use as hair oil is not included in
Heading 3305 or any of its Sub­Headings.
27
27. Chapter Note 3 of Chapter 33 makes it clear
that Heading 3305,  inter alia,  would apply to products
“which   are   suitable   for   use   as   goods   mentioned   in   the
Heading and if they are put up in packings of a kind sold
by   retail   for   such   use”.     Heading   3305   deals   with
“preparations for use on the hair”.   In the present case, it
is not in dispute that in the packings of coconut oil the
inscription   “edible   oil”   is   mentioned.     There   is   no
representation,   declaration   or   advertisement   in   the
packings that the same can be or is meant to be used as a
hair oil. 
28. Chapter   Note   II   of   Chapter   33   prior   to
amendment and which has been substituted by Chapter
Note 3 was more explicit in requiring packing put up with:
“labels, literature or other indications that
they   are   for   use   as   cosmetics   or   toilet
preparations or put up in a form clearly
specialized   to   such   use   and   includes
products   whether   or   not   they   contain
subsidiary   pharmaceutical   or   antiseptic
constituents,   or   are   held   out   as   having
subsidiary curative or prophylactic value.”
However, the changes brought about/deletions made
by the amendment would hardly be significant inasmuch
28
as   Chapter   Note   3   of   Chapter   33   (post­amendment)
introduced by the Amendment Act in place of the erstwhile
Chapter No.2 is identical with Chapter 3 Note of Chapter
33 in Harmonised System of Nomenclature (HSN) which
must   guide   and   illuminate   the   correct   process   of
interpretation and understanding.   Furthermore, there is
an   explanatory   note   in   the   Harmonised   System   of
Nomenclature relating to Chapter Note 3 the relevant part
of which is as follows:
General
“Headings   33.03   to   33.07   include   products,   whether   or   not
mixed (other than aqueous distillates and aqueous solutions of
essential oils), suitable for use as goods of these headings and
put up in packings of a kind sold by retail for such sue (see Note
3 to this Chapter).
The   products   of   headings   33.03   to   33.07   remain   in   these
headings whether or not they contain subsidiary pharmaceutical
or disinfectant constituents, or are held out as having subsidiary
therapeutic or prophylactic value (see Note 1(d) to Chapter 30).
However, prepared room deodorizers remain classified in heading
33.07 even if they have disinfectant properties of more than a
subsidiary nature.
Preparations   (e.g.   varnish)   and   unmixed   products   (e.g.,
unperfumed powdered talc, fuller’s earth, aceton, alum) which
are suitable for other uses in addition to those described above
are classified in these headings only) when they are :
(a) In packings of a kind sold to the consumer and put up
with labels, literature or other indications that they are for use
as   perfumery,   cosmetic   or   toilet   preparations,   or   as   room
deodorisers; or
(b) Put up in a form clearly specialised to such use (e.g. nail
varnish   put   up   in   small   bottles   furnished   with   the   brush
required for applying the varnish). "
29. Explanatory   note   to   Chapter   Note   3   of   HSN
makes the contents of the Chapter Note more clear. In
29
order to classify a product under tariff Item No.3305 of the
Act,   the   requirements   of   Clauses   (a)   and   (b)   of   the
Explanatory Note to Chapter Note 3 of Harmonised System
of Nomenclature (HSN) would be required to be satisfied
and   the   goods/packages   must   be   put   up   with
labels/literatures   and   other   indications   that   they   are
meant   for   use   as   perfumery,   cosmetic   and   toilet
preparations or the goods must be put up in a form clearly
specialised for such use as for example nail varnish must
be put up in small bottles accompanied with a brush. No
such   situation   exists   in   respect   of   the   coconut   oil   in
question. The absence of any explanatory note to Chapter
Note 3 of Chapter 33 of the Central Excise Tariff Act on
the same terms as in the HSN would hardly make any
difference in the conclusion to be reached in view of the
clear and consistent  pronouncement of this Court first
expressed in  Collector  of  Central Excise,  Shillong  Vs.
Wood Craft Products Ltd. (supra) to the following effect:
“12. It is significant, as expressly stated, in
the   Statement   of   Objects   and   Reasons,
that the Central excise tariffs are based on
the HSN and the internationally accepted
30
nomenclature was taken into account to
“reduce   disputes   on   account   of   tariff
classification”.   Accordingly,   for   resolving
any dispute relating to tariff classification,
a safe guide is the internationally accepted
nomenclature   emerging   from   the   HSN.
This   being   the   expressly   acknowledged
basis   of   the   structure   of   Central   excise
tariff in the Act and the tariff classification
made   therein,   in   case   of   any   doubt   the
HSN is a safe guide for ascertaining the
true meaning of any expression used in the
Act.   The   ISI   Glossary   of   Terms   has   a
different   purpose   and,   therefore,   the
specific purpose of tariff classification for
which   the   internationally   accepted
nomenclature in HSN has been adopted,
for enacting the Central Excise Tariff Act,
1985, must be preferred, in case of any
difference   between   the   meaning   of   the
expression   given   in   the   HSN   and   the
meaning of that term given in the Glossary
of Terms of the ISI.
18. We are of the view that the Tribunal as
well as the High Court fell into the error of
overlooking the fact that the structure of
the Central excise tariff is based on the
internationally   accepted   nomenclature
found   in   the   HSN   and,   therefore,   any
dispute   relating   to   tariff   classification
must, as far as possible, be resolved with
reference to the nomenclature indicated by
the   HSN  unless   there   be   an   express
different intention indicated by the Central
Excise Tariff Act, 1985 itself. The definition
of a term in the ISI Glossary, which has a
different   purpose,   cannot,   in   case   of   a
conflict, override the clear indication of the
meaning of an identical expression in the
same   context   in   the   HSN.   In   the   HSN,
block board is included within the meaning
31
of the expression “similar laminated wood”
in   the   same   context   of   classification   of
block board. Since the Central Excise Tariff
Act,   1985   is   enacted   on   the   basis   and
pattern of the HSN, the same expression
used in the Act must, as far as practicable,
be construed to have the meaning which is
expressly given to it in the HSN when there
is no indication in the Indian tariff of a
different intention.”
30. The views expressed by this Court as to when
the HSN can be ignored including the view in   Camlin
Limited   Vs.   Commissioner   of   Central   Excise,
Mumbai10 are not contrary to what has been expressed
herein;   rather   the   said   views   have   been   expressed   in
situations where the legislative intention to depart from
the HSN is clear and unambiguous.   Illustratively, the
HSN   would   not   permit   the   Court   to   import   an   entry
mentioned in the HSN but not in the Tariff Act.   The
same  principle  will  however  not  apply  to   the  Chapter
notes   and   the   Explanatory   notes   which   are   tools   for
understanding   the   Entries/Headings.   The   opinions   in
O.K.   Play   (India)   Ltd.   Vs.   Commissioner   of   Central
Excise,  Delhi­III,  Gurgaon  (supra) and  Commissioner
10 (2008) 9 SCC 82
32
of   Customs   and   Central   Excise,   Goa   Vs.   Phil
Corporation   Limited (supra)   reiterating   the   view   in
Collector of Central Excise, Shillong Vs. Wood Craft
Products   Ltd.  (supra)   and   the   specific   stress   on   the
Chapter   Notes   and   explanatory   notes   in   the   HSN   as
permissible   and   useful   aids   in   understanding   the
Headings/entries in the Central Excise Tariff Act cannot
be lost sight of. 
31. The photo personality of a cine star with flowing,
hair,   as   urged   on   behalf   of   the   Revenue,   may   not   be
convincingly determinative. Also the fact that some of the
smaller containers of coconut oil have nozzles for release
of drops of coconut oil from the container will not satisfy
the above requirement inasmuch as the materials collected
by the Revenue in the course of adjudication proceedings
indicate that the amount of coconut oil used in cooking, at
times, may be, minimum.
32. The above conspectus of fact can reasonably lead
to   the   conclusion   that   the   coconut   oil  in   dispute   in   the
present case would be more appropriately classifiable under
Chapter 15, Heading 1513. If the above is a possible and
33
reasonable conclusion and we are inclined to hold as such,
the contention of the Revenue with regard to application of
Rules 1 and 3 of the General Rules for Interpretation;
Chapter Note 1(e) to Chapter 15; Note 2 to Section VI will
not at all be relevant in this regard.  The legislative history
behind Chapter 15; the words and expressions in Heading
1513 of the Tariff Act; the relevant Heading i.e. 1513 in the
HSN and the conditions/requirements stipulated in Chapter
Note 3 of Chapter 33 of the Central Excise Tariff read in the
light of the relevant provisions of Chapter Note 3 along with
the explanatory notes of Chapter 33 of the HSN, all, would
lead   to   the   irresistible   conclusion   that   coconut   oil   is
classifiable under Heading 1513 of Chapter 15 of the Central
Excise Tariff Act. In this regard, it may be noticed that Rule
3 of the Rules of General Interpretation would apply only in a
situation   where   the   product   is   classifiable   under   two
different   Chapters,   a   position   that   does   not   exist   in   the
present   case.   At   the   same   time,   Chapter   Note   1(e)   to
Chapter 15 and Note 2 to Section VI would be applicable
only if the product i.e. coconut oil would unambiguously
fall under any of the Headings under Section VI, a position
that cannot be accepted. 
34
33. A contention has been advanced on behalf of the
Revenue   that  “Parachute”   is   a   registered   trademark   of
Marico and goods are being marketed under the aforesaid
trade mark for use as hair oil.  The issue of registered trade
mark and classification for the purpose of levy of Central
Excise Tariff are unrelated and unconnected to each other.
Registration   of   a   trademark   under   any   particular   class
cannot be determinative of the classification of the product
for purposes of Central Excise Tariff.   Moreover, in the
present case, Marico had/has obtained registration of its
trade mark  “Parachute” under different classes including
edible   oil   (Class   29)   as   well   as   hair   oil   lotions,   hair
preparations under Class 3.
34. The   contents   of   Circular   bearing   No.
No.145/56/95­CX   dated   31.08.1995   at   a   point   of   time
when Chapter Note II of Chapter 33 was in force has already
been noticed and infact the relevant paragraphs 5 to 9 of
the above Circular, extracted above, makes it clear that a
product   cannot   be   classified   under   Chapter   33   Heading
3305   in   the   absence   of   any   proof   that   it   is   specially
35
prepared  “for use on the hair”  and in the absence of any
label/literature etc on the container to such effect.  Merely
because the product is packed in small containers and used
by some sections of the customers as hair oil cannot be a
valid basis for classification under Heading 3305.   Only if
the containers bear labels/literature indicating that it is
meant for use on the hair that the coconut oil in dispute
may   merit   classification   under   Chapter   33.     The   above
position would continue to hold the field notwithstanding
the substitution of Chapter Note II by Chapter Note 3 w.e.f.
28­02­2005   in   view   of   the   similar   stipulations   and
conditions incorporated in Chapter No.3 of the HSN read
with the Explanatory Note 3 thereto which the Court would
be obliged to take into account.
35. The   Order   under   Section   37B   of   the   Central
Excise   Act   dated   3.6.2009   discussed   above   is   infact   a
virtual admission on the part of the Revenue that coconut
oil   packed   in   containers   upto   200   ml   alone   would   be
classifiable under Chapter 33 and the larger packages even
of 1/2 litres would fall under Chapter 15.   In the absence
of   the   essential   stipulations   under   Chapter   Note   3   of
36
Chapter 33, discussed above, in respect of the product in
question   there   can   be   no   justification   for   the   direction
contained   in   the   order/circular   dated   3.6.2009.     The
learned   Appellate   Tribunal   in  Raj   Oil   Mills   Vs.
Commissioner   of   Central   Excise  (supra), therefore,  took
the view that even small packets of 200 ml or less would be
more appropriately classifiable under chapter 15 as coconut
oil and not as hair oil under Chapter 33.  The said decision
of the Tribunal has been affirmed by this Court and the
appeals   by   the   Revenue   (Civil   Appeal   Nos.2023­2037   of
2014) have been dismissed on 7.12.2014.  The dismissal of
the appeals, though by a non­speaking order, is one on
merit and therefore the order of the Tribunal in  Raj  Oil
Mills (supra) can be understood to have merged with the
decision of this Court as held in V.M. Salgaocar & Bros.
Pvt. Ltd. Vs. Commissioner of Income Tax11
.
36. For the aforesaid reasons, we take the view that
the coconut oil in small packings in respect of which the
present dispute with regard to classification has arisen is
more appropriately classifiable under Chapter 15, Heading
11 (2000) 5 SCC 373
37
1513   and   not   under   Chapter   33,   Heading   3305.
Consequently   while   dismissing   the   appeals   filed   by   the
Revenue, we affirm the Orders to the above effect passed by
the learned Appellate Tribunal.
……………...............J.
            (RANJAN GOGOI)
NEW DELHI
APRIL 13, 2018.
38
REPORTABLE
IN THE SUPREME COURT OF INDIA
CIVIL APPELLATE JURISDICTION
CIVIL APPEAL NO. 1766 OF 2009
COMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, SALEM …Appellant
Versus
M/S MADHAN AGRO INDUSTRIES (I) PVT. LTD. ...Respondent
WITH
CIVIL APPEAL NOS. 6703-6710 OF 2009
COMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE,
PONDICHERRY …Appellant
Versus
M/S AISHWARYA INDUSTRIES AND ORS. ...Respondents
J U D G M E N T
R. BANUMATHI, J.
I have gone through the judgment by His Lordship Justice Ranjan
Gogoi and I am unable to agree with the reasonings and the conclusion. I
am of the view that in view of the amended provisions of Chapter Note 3 to
Chapter 33 and Section Note 2 to Section VI, 'Coconut Oil' packed in small
sachets/containers, as they are suitable for use on hair are classifiable
under Chapter 33 and not under Chapter 15. Following are the reasonings
for my conclusion.
2. Whether 'Coconut Oil' manufactured and packed in small containers
and sachets by the respondent, is classifiable under Chapter Heading 3305
("Hair Oil", "Other") as claimed by the Revenue or under Chapter 15
Heading 1513 : Coconut (Copra) oil as claimed by the respondent, is the
39
point falling for consideration in these appeals.
3. The competing entries for classification as claimed by the appellantRevenue
and the respondent/assessee are as under:-
Classification by the Appellant Classification by the Respondent
3305 PREPARATIONS FOR
 USE ON THE HAIR
1513 COCONUT (COPRA), PALM
 KERNEL OR BABASSU OIL AND
FRACTIONS THEREOF,
WHETHER OR NOT REFINED,
BUT NOT CHEMICALLY MODIFIED
3305 90 - Other
 --- Hair Oil
- Coconut (copra) oil and its
fractions:
3305 90 19 ---- Other 1513 11 00 - - Crude Oil (or)
1513 19 00 - - Other
4. Chapter 33 deals with "Essential oils and Resinoids, Perfumery,
Cosmetic or Toilet Preparations". Tariff Item 33 05 reads as under:-
"3305 Preparations for use on the hair
3305 10 - Shampoos
3305 10 10 - - - Containing spirit
3305 10 90 - - - Other
3305 20 00 - Preparations for permanent waving or
straightening
3305 30 00 - Hair lacquers
3305 90 - Other
- - - Hair oil
3305 90 11 - - - - Perfumed
3305 90 19 - - - - Other"
5. Chapter 15 deals with "Animal or vegetable fats and oils and their
cleavage products; prepared edible fats; animal or vegetable waxes". Tariff
Item 15 13 reads as under:-
"1513
-
Coconut (copra), palm kernel or
babassu oil and fractions
thereof, whether or not refined,
but not chemically modified
Coconut (copra) oil and its
fractions
1513 11 00 - - Crude oil
1513 19 00 - - Other
- Palm kernel or babassu oil and
fractions thereof
6. A harmonious construction of the following would govern the field for
40
classification of the goods:-
 Rule 1 of the General Rules for the Interpretation of the First Schedule
 Chapter Note 1(e) to Chapter 15
 Section Note 2 to Section VI (after amendment w.e.f. 28.02.2005)
 Chapter Note 3 to Chapter 33 (after amendment w.e.f. 28.02.2005)
As discussed infra, cumulative construction of the above would lead to the
conclusion that "if the impugned goods are classifiable under Tariff Item
3305 90 19, then the impugned goods are automatically excluded from
classification under Tariff Item 1513 11 00 (or) 1513 19 00".
7. The Tariff itself has provided five rules for the interpretation. The First
Rule of the General Rules for the Interpretation of the First Schedule, is
generally referred to as the cardinal principle for classification. If the
classification can be done from the Heading, Section or Chapter Notes, the
rules of interpretation need not be resorted to. Interpretative rules are
applicable only where the classification of a product cannot be determined
in accordance with the Headings or relative Sections or Chapter Notes. The
First Schedule-Excise Tariff Rules for the interpretation of this Schedule,
reads as under:-
"1. The titles of Sections and Chapters are provided for ease of reference
only; for legal purposes, classification shall be determined according to
the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes and,
provided such headings or Notes do not otherwise require, according to the
provisions hereinafter contained.
2.(a) Any reference in a heading to goods shall be taken to include a
reference to those goods incomplete or unfinished, provided that, the
incomplete or unfinished goods have the essential character of the complete
or finished goods. It shall also be taken to include a reference to those goods
complete or finished (or falling to be classified as complete or finished by
virtue of this rule), removed unassembled or disassembled.
(b) Any reference in a heading to a material or substance shall be taken to
include a reference to mixtures or combinations of that material or substance
with other materials or substances. Any reference to goods of a given
material or substance shall be taken to include a reference to goods
41
consisting wholly or partly of such material or substance. The classification of
goods consisting of more than one material or substance shall be according
to the principles contained in rule 3.
3. When by application of sub-rule (b) of rule 2 or for any other reason, goods
are, prima facie, classifiable under two or more headings, classification shall
be effected as follows:-
(a) the heading which provide the most specific description shall be
preferred to headings providing a more general description. However, when
two or more headings each refer to part only of the materials or substances
contained in mixed or composite goods or to part only of the items in a set,
those headings are to be regarded as equally specific in relation to those
goods, even if one of them gives a more complete or precise description of
the goods.
(b) Mixtures, composite goods consisting of different materials or made
up of different components, and goods put up in sets, which cannot be
classified by reference to (a), shall be classified as if they consisted of the
material or component which gives them their essential character, insofar as
this criterion is applicable.
(c) When goods cannot be classified by reference to (a) or (b), they shall
be classified under the heading which occurs last in the numerical order
among those which equally merit consideration.
4. Goods which cannot be classified in accordance with the above rules shall
be classified under the heading appropriate to the goods to which they are
most akin.
......"
8. The First Rule has two components, namely:
i. The titles of Sections, Chapters and Sub-Chapters are provided for ease
of reference only;
ii. for legal purposes, classification shall be determined according to the
terms of the Headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes and,
provided such Headings or Chapter Notes do not otherwise require,
according to the provisions thereinafter contained.
The classification of goods will be as per the point (ii) as per which, the
classification demands the following conditions to be taken into
consideration:-
i. Classification shall be done according to the terms of the Headings, and
ii. According to any relative Section or Chapter Notes, and
iii. Provided such Headings or Chapter Notes do not otherwise require
according to the provisions contained thereon that is Rules 2 to 6
It is clear from the above that:- (i) the Heading and (ii) relative Section or
Chapter Notes must be considered before classification is done. Only if
after this exercise is done, a conflict in classification still persists, then the
other rules for Interpretation may be resorted to (iii).
42
9. CHANGES BROUGHT IN BY CENTRAL EXCISE TARIFF
(AMENDMENT) ACT, 2004:- Central Excise Tariff (Amendment) Act, 2004
which came into force with effect from 28.02.2005 brought in significant
changes in Note 2 to Chapter 33 and introduction of Note 2 to Section VI
inviting reclassification of the impugned goods. The Statement of Objects
and Reasons of the Central Excise Tariff (Amendment) Act, 2004 reads as
under:-
(a) To accommodate more prominently the commodities which are of
significance to the country's needs;
(b) To adopt a common commodity classification for the purpose of levy
and collection of duties of customs and central excise and for purpose
of Import Trade Control Policy and collection of statistics;
(c) To accommodate the demand from the trade and industry for adoption
of a common commodity classification based on internationally
adopted Harmonized Systems of Nomenclature to be used for traderelated
transactions to facilitate International and domestic trade.
(d) The salient feature of the Bill, inter alia, expands the six digit
classification into eight digit classification and such expansion has
been made in the First Schedule and the Second Schedule to the said
Central Excise Tariff Act, to cover a wider range of specific
commodities under enlarged tariff items so as to accommodate
domestic concerns.
Tariff Item under eight digit system would be interpreted as under:-
First two digits: refer to the Chapter Number of the Tariff (e.g. 33 ××××××)
Next two digits: refer to heading of the goods in that Chapter (e.g. ×× 05 ××××)
Next two digits: indicate Chapter sub-heading (e.g. ×××× 90 ××)
Last two digits: refer to the chapter sub-sub-heading (e.g. ×××××× 10)
10. By the 2004 amendment, there has been realignment of certain
goods including the impugned goods. For proper appreciation, we may
usefully refer to comparative chart of relevant old legal provisions and the
new legal provisions after amendment as under:-
Sl.
No.
Old Legal Provision New Legal Provision
1. Section Note to
Section VI
Note 2: Goods put up in sets
consisting of two or more
Note 2:- Subject to Note 1
above, goods classifiable in
43
separate constituents, some or all
of which fall in this Section and
are intended to be mixed together
to obtain a product of Section VI
or VII, are to be classified in the
heading appropriate to that
product, provided that the
constituents are;
(a) .......
(b) .......
(c) ......
heading 3004, 3005, 3006,
3212, 3303, 3304, 3305,
3306, 3307, 3506, 3707 or
3808 by reason of being put
up in measured doses or for
retail sale are to be
classified in those headings
and in no other heading of
this Schedule.
2. Chapter Note to
Chapter 33
Note 2: Heading Nos.33.03 to
33.07 apply, inter alia, to
products, whether or not mixed
(other than aqueous distillates
and aqueous solutions of
essential oils), suitable for use as
goods of these headings and put
up in packings with labels,
literature or other indications
that they are for use as
cosmetics or toilet preparations
or put up in a form clearly
specialized to such use and
includes products whether or not
they contain subsidiary
pharmaceutical or antiseptic
constituents, or are held out as
having subsidiary curative or
prophylactic value.
Note 3: Headings 3303 to
3307 apply, inter alia, to
products, whether or not
mixed (other than aqueous
distillates and aqueous
solutions of essential oils),
suitable for use as goods of
these headings and put up
in packings of a kind sold
by retail for such use.
3. Heading
description
33.05 Preparations for use on the
hair
3305 Preparations for use
on the hair
4. Sub heading
description
3305.10 - Perfumed hair oils
 - Other:
3305 90 11 - - - - Perfumed
3305 90 19 - - - - Other
11. By a cumulative reading of the old provisions and the new legal
provisions, it can be seen that following significant changes have been
brought about in the Central Excise Tariff with effect from 28.02.2005:-
(i) Modification of the then Note 2 to Chapter 33 (presently renumbered
as 3) by way of deletion to the extent that ..... goods put up in
packings with labels, literature or other indications that they are for
use as......;
(ii) After amendment, incorporation of the expressions in Note 3 to
Chapter 33 the expressions "suitable for use as goods of those
headings" and "put up in packings of a kind sold by retail for such
use"; and
(iii) Introduction of Section Note 2 to Section VI - if the goods classifiable
under Heading 3305, it cannot be classified in any other heading of
44
the Schedule.
12. Relevant Chapter Notes and Section Notes for classification of the
impugned goods:- Let us now examine the relevant Headings, Sections
and Chapter Notes pertaining to the classification of the impugned goods.
Chapter Note 3 to Chapter 33 (amended w.e.f. 28.02.2005), reads as
under:-
"Headings 3303 to 3307 apply, inter alia, to products, whether or not
mixed (other than aqueous distillates and aqueous solutions of essential
oils), suitable for use as goods of these headings and put up in packings
of a kind sold by retail for such use"
13. Chapter Note 3 to Chapter 33 envisages four key things, namely:
a. The product may or may not be mixed;
b. The product should be suitable for use as a good under these
headings (33 03 to 33 07);
c. The product should be put up in packings of a kind sold by retail for
such use;
d. Headings 33 03 to 33 07 may also apply for other goods not being
covered by this Chapter Note (as indicated by the phrase 'inter alia")
14. It is important to note that the Chapter Note is not phrased in an
exclusive manner. It merely reiterates the conditions which are required to
be satisfied for a certain product to merit classification under Heading Tariff
Items 33 03 to 33 07. The expression, 'suitable for use as goods of these
headings' and 'put up in packings of a kind sold by retail for such use' as
used in Note 3 of Chapter 33 indicate that oils suitable for use as Hair Oil
are classifiable under Heading ...33 05... even if they are not so used.
What matters, is the 'suitability for such use' and 'packings of a kind sold
by retail for such use'. In view of the amended position, if the conditions as
specified in Note 3 to Chapter 33 for classification as 'Hair Oil, Other' are
45
satisfied, then the product has to be classified only under Heading ...33
05... and no other classification is permissible. The above is further made
clear by amended Section Note 2 to Section VI.
15. Section Note 2 to Section VI (after amendment w.e.f. 28.02.2005)
reads as under:-
"Subject to Note 1 above, goods classifiable in heading 3004, 3005, 3006,
3212, 3303, 3304, 3305, 3306, 3307, 3506, 3707 or 3808 by reason of being
put up in measured doses or for retail sale are to be classified in those
headings and in no other heading of this schedule."
Section Note 2 to Section VI of the first schedule is exclusionary in nature,
wherein it is inter alia stated that if a good is classifiable under
Heading ...33 05... it cannot be classified in any other Heading of the
Schedule. As per the provisions of Note 2 to Section VI, if the conditions as
specified in Chapter Note 3 for classification as 'Hair Oil' under
Heading ...33 05... are satisfied, then the product has to be classified only
under Heading ...33 05... and no other classification is permissible. If the
conditions as specified under Chapter Note 3 of Chapter 33 for
 classification of impugned goods as 'Hair Oil' under Heading ... 33 05... are
satisfied then the product is classifiable as goods only under Chapter 33
and by virtue of Section Note 2 to Section VI no other classification is
permissible.
16. Because of the "suitability for use as hair oil" and being 'put up in
packings of the kind sold by retail for such use', by virtue of Section Note 2
to Section VI, their classification under Chapter 15 as 'fixed vegetables oils'
or 'coconut oil' as claimed does not arise in view of the primacy given to
46
Tariff sub-heading ...33 05... by Note 2 to Section VI. Further Note 1 (e) to
Chapter 15 provides that "the chapter does not cover goods of Section VI".
Note 1(e) to Chapter 15 reads as under:-
"Animal or Vegetable fats and Oils and their cleavage products; prepared
edible fats; Animal or Vegetable Waxes
Notes:
1. This Chapter does not cover:-
............
(e) fatty acids, prepared waxes, medicaments, paints, varnishes,
soap, perfumery, cosmetic or toilet preparations, sulphonated oils or
other goods of Section VI; or
.............."
Note 1(e) to Chapter 15 clearly excludes goods covered under Section VI
in which Chapter 33 Tariff Item 33 05 is one of the items.
17. Whether Coconut Oil falls under Chapter 15 and applicability of
Interpretative Rule 3:- Contention of the assessee is that the description of
'Coconut Oil' under Chapter 15 is specific and hence applicable to the
subject goods in terms of Rule 3(a) of the Interpretative Rules. It is wellsettled
that Rule 3(a) of "General Rules for the Interpretation" is invokable
only if the Headings and the relevant Sections and the Chapter Notes are
not clearly determinative of the classification. Claim of the assessee is that
the description 'Coconut Oil' under Chapter 15 is specific and hence,
applicable to their goods in terms of Rule 3(a) of the Interpretative Rules,
though appears attractive, the same does not merit acceptance. This is
because the classification of the impugned goods is based on the terms of
Headings, relative Chapter Notes and Section Notes which are paramount
in this regard under the primary and main Rule 1 of the Interpretative
Rules.
47
18. M/s. Moreshwar and other job workers:- In the light of the above
amended provisions and the interpretation thereon, let me consider
whether the impugned goods are classifiable under the Heading 33 05 or
under Chapter 15 Item 15 13. For convenience, firstly, I refer to the facts in
C.A. Nos.6703-10 of 2009. Assessees/respondents in these appeals viz.,
(i) Aishwarya Industries; (ii) Moreshwar Industries; (iii) Shivam Enterprises;
(iv) Sowparnika Enterprises are four job workers and M/s. Marico Ltd. who
is the registered owner of the brand 'Parachute' for 'Hair Oil'. M/s.
Moreshwar Industries and three other job workers had entered into a
contract with M/s. Marico Ltd. for the manufacture of HDPE bottles (High
Density Polyethylene), screen printing with the brand name and logo
'Parachute' of Marico Ltd. and packing the bottles with coconut oil to be
sold in the market under the brand 'Parachute'. From the materials on
record, the process undertaken by M/s. Moreshwar and others on the job
work from M/s. Marico is summarized as:- (a) M/s. Moreshwar and other
job workers receive coconut oil in tankers from M/s. Marico, Pondicherry;
the said oil is unloaded and stored in storage tanks at M/s. Moreshwar and
other respondents/job workers; (b) Then, after mechanical filtering and
stored in another tanker, the same is packed into 50 ml, 100 ml, 200 ml
and 500 ml 'containers' and 'flip tops'; (c) these retail packs are then
supplied to M/s. Marico depot as per their dispatch schedule for being sold
under the brand name 'Parachute'; and (d) the description given on the
packings is '100% pure coconut oil' with the 'Parachute' mark. As the
48
process carried out by M/s. Moreshwar and other job workers is that after
mechanical filtering packing of goods from bulk to retail pack of a kind
(containers so far manufactured by them) and delivered to M/s. Marico to
be sold under the brand name 'Parachute', the activities of M/s. Moreshwar
and other job workers amount to manufacture in terms of Section 2 (f)(iii) of
Central Excise Act, 1944. According to Revenue, once this fact of
manufacture of oil 'suitable for use as 'Hair Oil'' is established, classification
under Chapter Heading 15 is ruled out and the appropriate Heading is 33
05 by virtue of Chapter Note 3 to Chapter 33 and Note 2 to Section VI.
19. M/s. Madhan Agro Industries (P) Ltd. (MAIPL):- So far as the 'MAIPL',
coconut (copra) is crushed and grounded and the oil-cake and oil are
separated and then the oil is filtered and purified. The filtered oil is then
stored in tanks and packed in pouches and bottles of different
measurements viz., 5 ml, 50 ml, 100 ml, 200 ml, 500 ml, and 1000 ml
pouches, 50 ml, 100 ml, 200 ml and 500 ml plastic bottles, 100 ml, 200 ml,
and 500 ml wide mouthed bottles, 200 ml tins, one litre and 2 litre cans and
sold in the market. According to Revenue, MAIPL, tests the products of
their competitor's such as 'Parachute Hair Oil' and compare the results of
their products to ensure the marketability of their product. Case of
Revenue is that plastic bottles have the provision for making a small hole
on the top and when the bottle is tilted and pressed lightly, only a small
quantity of oil comes out, which can be applied on the hair and those
coconut oil manufactured by M/s. MAIPL is suitable for use as 'Hair Oil'.
49
The very nature of packing shows that the product is meant to facilitate
such use as 'Hair Oil' and the same is classifiable under Chapter 33. It is
alleged that with an intention to evade payment of duty, M/s. MAIPL have
mis-declared the excisable coconut oil (un-perfumed Hair Oil) as 'edible
grade/oil' filtered 100% pure coconut oil.
20. Findings of the Tribunal:- The tribunal set aside the order of the
Commissioner by holding that Chapter 15 covers all varieties of coconut
oil, edible as well as non-edible and it is not essential that the edible
coconut oil should be marketed in packaging approved by PFA Rules for
classifying it under Chapter 15 and that the earlier decision of the Tribunal
(prior to amendment) applies to the corresponding entries even after
amendment. In the case of MAIPL, after referring to earlier decisions of the
Tribunal, CESTAT held as under:-
 "...The packing of coconut oil in that case was not of the type referred
to, above or which could be solely and exclusively said to be meant for
application on hair only. As such the Tribunal held that Chapter 2 to
Chapter 33 was not applicable for classifying the goods in that case
under Chapter 33. HSN Explanatory Notes to Chapter 33 were same
before and after 28.02.05. Moreover entries under Chapter 15 relating
to coconut oil in the HSN and Central Excise Tariff after 28.02.2005 are
also identical. Therefore, the decision of the Tribunal in the above
case interpreting the scope of Chapter 15.13 and 33.05 of Central
Excise Tariff applies to the corresponding entries even after
28.02.2005. The above ratio of the decision of the Tribunal therefore
squarely applies to the present case also...."
21. Contention of the Revenue:- Learned Senior Counsel Mr. A.K. Panda
submitted that the tribunal failed to consider that by virtue of amendment to
Central Excise Tariff Act, 1985 with effect from 28.02.2005, 'Hair Oil' other
than perfumed ones merit classification under tariff item No.3305.90.19. It
50
was submitted that consequent to the amendment, that so long as the
product is 'suitable for use as goods of the heading' and "put up in packing
for retail sale for such use", whether mixed or not, is classifiable under
Chapter Heading 33 05 and in the light of Section Note 2 to Section VI, it
cannot be classified under any other Heading in this Schedule. It was
further submitted that CESTAT relied upon various orders for referring to
Chapter Note 2 to Chapter 33 which were though prior to amendment
thereby failing to consider that the Show Cause Notice and the Order-inOriginal
were passed pursuant to the amended Chapter Note 2 to Chapter
Note 33 and Section Note with effect from 01.03.2005. Insofar as
'Parachute' is concerned, Revenue places reliance upon various materials
like Trade Mark Registration and other materials as to depicting how the
market has understood, 'Parachute' as the 'Hair Oil'. It was further
submitted that in case of conflict, the Notes contained in the Tariff Schedule
to the CESTAT will prevail over that of the HSN and the impugned order
cannot be sustained.
22. Contention of the respondent(s)/Assessee(s): Contention of the
respondents/assessees is that 100% pure 'Coconut Oil' cover all varieties
of coconut (Copra oil) marked as 'edible oil' and manufactured under
Prevention of Food Adulteration (PFA) licence the same cannot be
classified "preparation for use on hair" to be classified as 'Hair Oil' under
Chapter 33 Tariff Item 33 05 merely because of the small size of the
packings. Learned Senior Counsel Mr. Bagaria submitted that under the
51
statutory provision of the Edible Oils Packaging (Regulation) Order, 1988
read with Sl. No.10 of Schedule III of the Standards of Weights & Measures
(Packaged Commodities) Rules, 1977, edible oil shall be packed in the
specified sizes of 50 ml, 100 ml, 200 ml, 500 ml, 1 litre or 2 litres which are
fully in accordance with the mandatory requirement of the aforesaid
statutory provisions. It is, therefore, submitted that by packing the said
'edible Oil' as per the sizes as required under the law, 'edible oil' does not
cease to become 'edible oil' and become classifiable as 'Hair Oil' so as to
attract classification under 33.05. Reliance was placed upon the judgment
of Rajasthan High Court in Assistant Commissioner v. Marico Industries
Ltd. 2006 SCC online Raj 446 to contend that the small packings being
done for convenience of consumers to cater to different sections of
consumers at the different economic levels, it would not make the 'edible
coconut oil' to be "Hair Oil" classifiable under Chapter 33. Reliance was
also placed upon the judgment of Allahabad High Court in Marico Limited
v. Commissioner, Commercial Taxes, UP (2015) 78 VST 423.
23. Whether the Tribunal was right in classifying the impugned goods
under Chapter 15:- The Tribunal held that Chapter 15 covers all varieties of
coconut oil, edible as well as non-edible. Chapter 15 of Section III of the
Schedule to CETA, 1985 covers "animal or vegetable fats and oils".
Heading 1513 reads as under:-
"1513
-
Coconut (copra), palm kernel or babassu
oil and fractions thereof, whether or not
refined, but not chemically modified
Coconut (copra) oil and its fractions
1513 11 00 - - Crude oil
52
1513 19 00 - - Other
'Coconut Oil' manufactured and cleared by M/s. Moreshwar and other job
workers and MAIPL can be classified either as 'Hair Oil' under sub-heading
3305 or as 'Vegetable Oil' under sub-heading 1513. However, when
'Coconut Oil' is put up in packing of a kind sold in retail suitable for use as
application on hair would merit classification under tariff entry 33.05. This is
the object of the legislature in bringing about the amendment to Chapter
Note 3 of Chapter 33 and Section Note 2 to Section VI. Chapter Note 1(e)
to Chapter 15 provides that ".....said Chapter does not cover goods of
Section VI". This exclusion is in clear conformity and recognition of the fact
that goods which otherwise would fall under Section VI are classifiable in
accordance with the conditions of Chapter Notes contained in Chapter 33
(use of goods, nature of packing, form etc.) and under no other Heading of
the Schedule. By holding that Chapter 15 covers all varieties of coconut
oil, edible as well as non-edible, the Tribunal erred in not keeping in view
that the object of the legislature in bringing about the amendment.
24. As discussed earlier, the process carried on by M/s. Moreshwar and
other job workers are:- (i) oil received from M/s. Marico is unloaded and
stored in storage tanks in the unit and it undergoes the process of
mechanical filtering and stored in another tank, then sent through pipeline
for filling in the small containers by the filling machines; (ii) oil obtained by
leakage, waste, overflow etc. are collected and fed into the salvage oil tank
and the same is recycled and blended with 9 MT coconut oil in tanker for
53
two hours or 16 MT coconut oil tanker for three hours; (iii) for manufacture
of HDPE containers, HDPE granules and master batch in the required ratio
is mixed and fed into the mould and blue colour container is obtained; the
fit container is sent to heating and then screen-printing with blue, green
and white colour printing ink for printing the trademark and logo and other
details as required by M/s Marico Ltd.; (iv) waste grind materials and 8% of
pellets are mixed with virgin granules for manufacture of containers; and
(v) the containers are then wrapped with thin plastic and packed in
cardboard boxes and dispatched to the depot of M/s. Marico Ltd.
25. Order-in-Original by the Commissioner recorded findings of fact that
HDPE containers manufactured by M/s. Moreshwar and other job workers
that coconut oil stored in the tanks at M/s. Moreshwar after mechanical
filtering is packed in 50 ml, 100 ml, 200 ml, 1 ltr., 2 ltr containers for retail
use and these retail packs are supplied to M/s. Marico Depot as per the
dispatch schedule. The description given on the packings is 100% pure
coconut oil with 'Parachute' mark. So far as the first component "the
product may or may not be mixed", as discussed earlier, the impugned
goods "coconut oil" is pure oil and is not a mixed product and thus, the first
condition is satisfied. So far as the second condition, "the product should
be suitable for use as a good under these headings (33 03 to 33 07)" is
also satisfied. Thus, the first and second components of Note 3 to Chapter
Note 33 "the product may or may not be mixed" and "the product should be
suitable for use as a good under these Headings (33 05)" are satisfied.
54
26. As discussed infra by applying the 'Common Parlance Test', pure
coconut oil packed in small containers is understood by the dealer and the
consumer and in the market as 'Hair Oil'. The expression "suitable for use
as goods in these headings" as used in the Chapter Note 3 to Chapter 33
indicates that oils suitable for use as 'Hair Oil' or classifiable under Heading
33 05 even if they are not so used. As per Note 3 to Chapter 33, what
matters is suitability for such use, if the answer to which is 'Yes', then the
goods are classifiable under Chapter 33. So far as the next component,
"the product should be put up in packings of a kind sold by retail facilitating
such use", is satisfied then they are classified under Chapter 33. As
pointed out in the Order-in-Original and also as discussed earlier in the
case of MAIPL and also M/s. Moreshwar and other job workers, the product
is packed in small quantities in containers like 50 ml, 100 ml, 200 ml, 500
ml which also contain the brand trademark 'Parachute'.
27. So far as respondent-MAIPL is concerned, coconut is crushed and
pure coconut oil is packed in 5 ml, 50 ml, 100 ml, 200 ml, 500 ml and one
litre pouches and also containers in 50 ml, 100 ml, 200 ml, 500 ml and one
litre cans and sold under the brand name 'Shanthi'. Here again, these
pouches/containers in such small packings by construing them in the sense
as to how in the trade, dealers and consumers understood it. The
Commissioner was right in holding that they were 'Hair Oil' suitable for use
on hair.
28. Insofar as 'Parachute' is concerned, the Revenue relies upon
55
various materials as to how consumers and others engaged in the trade
understood "Parachute" for 'Nature Care for Hair' including the registration
of Trademark No.1033842 Class-3-Parachute associated with Hair Oil.
Contention of Revenue is that the market identity of the subject goodscoconut
oil is 'Hair Oil' and not as 'Edible Grade Oil'. The Revenue has
also referred to the website of 'Parachute' (vide Order-in-Original
No.06/2008-(C) dated 28.02.2008) where 'Parachute' is described as 'Hair
Oil' and the same reads as under:-
"Nature Care Division (55% of turnover): Parachute was the first branded
coconut oil in the Indian market and has become a generic name for
coconut oil used for hair application. It currently has a 52% market share in
the branded coconut oil market. About 50% of Marico's turnover is
contributed by the Parachute brand alone. To build upon and strengthen
the strong association between coconut and Parachute brand, Marico has
set up a Research Centre to develop new coconut based products. Over
the years, the company has launched several brand extensions such as
'Parachute Jasmine', 'Parachute Dandruff Solution', etc....."
29. An argument was advanced by the respondent/assessee that the
packings/containers do not contain any label/indication to the effect that the
subject goods are used on the hair. The contention that the packings
contain description as 'Edible Oil' and that there was no indication on the
packing that it is 'Hair Oil' is of no significance. After the amendment, there
is no necessity that the packings/containers should bear label to the effect
that the goods are used on the hair. As per Note 3 to Chapter 33, any
product "suitable for use as goods in these headings and that put up in
packings of a kind sold by retail for such use", has to be classified as 'Hair
Oil' under Chapter 33. So long as the product is suitable for use as 'Hair
Oil' and if it is packed in such a way that it is useable for the purposes of
56
'Hair Oil', it has to be classified as 'Hair Oil' under Chapter 33.
30. Government of India, Trade Mark Registry and Public search result
indicate that Trademark No.1033842 Class-3-Parachute is associated with
Hair Oil, Hair lotions etc. Registration of the trademark of the 'Parachute'
brand is for selling items like hair oil, hair lotion, hair growing preparation,
hair tonics etc. The Tribunal held that the aspect of label identified with the
hair oil does not advance the case of Revenue for classification of 'Coconut
Oil' as 'Hair Oil' since the allegation that job workers used green colour
labels for marketing hair oil was absent in the Show Cause Notice.
Relevant portion of the order of the Tribunal is as under:-
"7. ........Moreover, the material allegation of Marico that its job workers used
green coloured labels for marketing hair oil exclusively was absent in the
show-cause notice. Marico had never marketed any product under the
orange label and all along marketed its entire range of products using the
green label only. We find that in the absence of any label which could be
identified with a hair oil, this aspect of the label does not advance the
Revenue's case for classification of the coconut oil as hair oil. Use of a
trademark or a label has no bearing on classification."
The Tribunal is not right in saying that the Show Cause Notice issued to the
respondent-M/s. Moreshwar and other job workers was absent on using
green coloured labels for marketing hair oil exclusively. Para (3.4.2) of the
Show Cause Notice refers to Screen-printing as under:-
".....HDPE granules and master batch in the required ratio is mixed and
fed into the mould and blue colour container is obtained. Runners and
raisers are removed and the container is examined and if it is not fit,
the same is sent for grinding. The fit container is sent to heating and
then screen-printing with blue, green and white colour printing ink for
printing the trademark and logo and other details as required by Marico
Ltd....."[Underlining added]
That apart para (3.4.5)(4.1) of the Show Cause Notice contains scanned
57
copy of the application for registration of the trademark in respect of hair oil.
Contents of Show Cause Notice, there are clear averments as to the colour,
printing of green 'label' and also the trademark. Hence, the Tribunal is not
right in saying that the Show Cause Notice is absent as regards use of
green coloured labels for marketing hair oil and that registration of
trademark for hair oil on the containers is of no significance for classifying
the product as hair oil under Chapter 33.
31. Whether classification of 'Coconut Oil' falls under Chapter 15 and
applicability of Interpretative Rule 3 is acceptable:- After amendment
Heading 15 13 reads as under:-
1513 Coconut (copra), palm kernel or
babassu oil and fractions thereof,
whether or not refined, but not
chemically modified
- Coconut (copra) oil and its fractions
1513 11 00 - - Crude oil
1513 19 00 - - Other
- Palm kernel or babassu oil and
fractions thereof
32. Contention of the assessee is that the description of 'Coconut Oil'
under Chapter 15 is specific and hence applicable to the subject goods in
terms of Rule 3(a) of the Interpretative Rules. It is well-settled that Rule
3(a) of "General Rules for the Interpretation" is invokable only if the
Headings and the relevant Sections and the Chapter Notes are not clearly
determinative of the classification. The contention that the description
"coconut oil (copra)" under Chapter 15 is specific and hence, applicable to
the impugned goods does not merit acceptance since the classification of
58
the goods is determinate on the harmonious construction of headings,
relative Chapter Notes and Section Notes and the main Rule 1 of the
Interpretative Rules. Classification of the impugned goods is primarily
based on the Headings, relative Chapter Notes and Section Notes which
are paramount in this regard as per Rule 1 of the Interpretative Rules.
33. Rule 3 provides for classification in case goods are classifiable under
two or more headings. For proper appreciation, at the risk of repetition, it is
necessary to refer to Rule 3 of the Interpretative Rules which reads as
under:-
3. When by application of sub-rule (b) of rule 2 or for any other reason, goods
are, prima facie, classifiable under two or more headings, classification shall
be effected as follows:-
(a) the heading which provide the most specific description shall be
preferred to headings providing a more general description. However, when
two or more headings each refer to part only of the materials or substances
contained in mixed or composite goods or to part only of the items in a set,
those headings are to be regarded as equally specific in relation to those
goods, even if one of them gives a more complete or precise description of
the goods.
(b) Mixtures, composite goods consisting of different materials or made
up of different components, and goods put up in sets, which cannot be
classified by reference to (a), shall be classified as if they consisted of the
material or component which gives them their essential character, insofar as
this criterion is applicable.
 (c) When goods cannot be classified by reference to (a) or (b), they shall
be classified under the heading which occurs last in the numerical order
among those which equally merit consideration.
Rule 3(b) provides the manner of classification of mixtures, composite
goods consisting of different materials or made up of different components
and goods put up in sets for retail sale. As 'Coconut Oil' is not mixed or
composite goods, Rule 3(b) does not have application. Rule 3(a) states
that the most specific description will be preferred over the more general
one. In the present case, when item description is read with the Chapter
59
Notes, Section Notes and the tests for classification that is Tariff Item
1513.19.00 and 3305.90.19 are equally specific. Hence, as per Rule 3(c),
when goods cannot be classified by reference to (a) or (b), they shall be
classified under the heading which occurs last in numerical order among
those which equally merit classification. Hence, the coconut oil
manufactured by the respondents could rightly be classified under heading
3305.90.19, as it occurs last in the numerical order of the tariff.
34. In Union of India and Ors. v. Pesticides Manufacturing and
Formulators Association of India, (2002) 8 SCC 410, this Court has held
that if there are two specific headings to which a product can be referred,
the one occurring subsequently would prevail.
35. The Tribunal set aside the demand on the ground that the "coconut
oil" would merit classification under Chapter Heading 15.03 of CETA, 1985
attracting 'NIL' rate of excise duty and not under Chapter Heading 33.05 of
the CETA attracting duty of 16% advalorem. The Tribunal erred in not
appreciating that with effect from 01.03.2005, the Central Excise Tariff Act,
1985 has undergone an amendment as per which (Note 3 to Chapter 33)
Heading nos.3303 to 3307 would apply, inter alia, to products whether or
not mixed suitable for use as goods of these headings and put up in
packings of a kind sold by retail for such use. The case laws which were
reported in Kothari Products Ltd. v. CCE 2002 (139) ELT 633 (T); Srikant
Sachets Pvt. Ltd. v. CCE 2005 (180) ELT 401 (T); and Commissioner of
Central Excise v. Essen Products (I) Ltd. 2006 (200) ELT 342 (T) etc. relied
60
upon by the Tribunal and the Board circular dated 31.08.1995 were dealing
with the cases pertaining to the period prior to 01.03.2005. The Tribunal
was not right in relying upon the earlier orders/circular dated 31.08.1995
prior to amendment to base its conclusion that coconut oil both edible and
non-edible merits classification under Chapter 15.
36. Tests for Classification: The Supreme Court has consistently taken
the view that, in determining the meaning or connotation of words and
expressions describing an article in a tariff schedule, one principle which is
fairly well-settled is that those words and expressions should be construed
in the sense in which they are understood in the trade, by the dealer and
the consumer. Whether a particular article will fall within a particular tariff
heading or not, has to be decided on the basis of as to how that article is
understood in 'common parlance' or in 'commercial world' and not as per
scientific or technical meaning. In the case of Asian Paints India Ltd. v.
Collector of Central Excise (1988) 2 SCC 470, it has been held that when
definition of a word has not been given, it must be considered in its popular
sense and not according to scientific or technical sense.
37. After referring to various judgments, in Plasmac Machine
Manufacturing Co. (P) Ltd. v. Collector of Central Excise, Bombay 1991
Supp (1) SCC 57, it was held by this Court as under:-
"15. ..... It is an accepted principle of classification that the goods should be
classified according to their popular meaning or as they are understood in
their commercial sense and not as per the scientific or technical meaning.
Indo International Industries v. CST ((1981) 2 SCC 528 and Dunlop India Ltd.
v. Union of India (1976) 2 SCC 241 have settled this proposition. How is the
product identified by the class or section of people dealing with or using the
61
product is also a test when the statute itself does not contain any definition
and commercial parlance would assume importance when the goods are
marketable as was held in Atul Glass Industries (Pvt.) Ltd. v. CCE (1986) 3
SCC 480 and Indian Aluminium Cables Ltd. v. Union of India (1985) 3 SCC
284. In Asian Paints India Ltd. v. CCE (1988) 2 SCC 470 which was a case of
emulsion paint, at para 8 it was said: (SCC p. 473, para 8)
“It is well settled that the commercial meaning has to be given
to the expressions in tariff items. Where definition of a word
has not been given, it must be construed in its popular sense.
Popular sense means that sense which people conversant
with the subject matter with which the statute is dealing, would
attribute to it.”"
38. In Dabur Industries Ltd. v. Commissioner of Central Excise,
Jamshedpur (2005) 4 SCC 9, it was held that in classifying a product, the
scientific or technical meaning is not to be resorted to but the test was to
see what the persons using the product understand it to be.
39. In Commissioner of Central Excise v. Wockhardt Life Sciences
Limited (2012) 5 SCC 585, this Court emphasized "Common Parlance
Test" or the "Commercial Usage Test" in paras (33) to (37) and held as
under:-
"33. There is no fixed test for classification of a taxable commodity. This is
probably the reason why the “common parlance test” or the “commercial
usage test” are the most common (see A. Nagaraju Bros. v. State of A.P.
1994 Supp (3) SCC 122). Whether a particular article will fall within a
particular tariff heading or not has to be decided on the basis of the tangible
material or evidence to determine how such an article is understood in
“common parlance” or in “commercial world” or in “trade circle” or in its
popular sense meaning. It is they who are concerned with it and it is the
sense in which they understand it that constitutes the definitive index of the
legislative intention, when the statute was enacted (see Delhi Cloth and
General Mills Co. Ltd. v. State of Rajasthan (1980) 4 SCC 71).
34. One of the essential factors for determining whether a product falls within
Chapter 30 or not is whether the product is understood as a pharmaceutical
product in common parlance [see CCE v. Shree Baidyanath Ayurved Bhavan
Ltd. (2009) 12 SCC 419 and CCE v. Ishaan Research Lab (P) Ltd. (2008) 13
SCC 349]. Further, the quantity of medicament used in a particular product
will also not be a relevant factor for, normally, the extent of use of medicinal
ingredients is very low because a larger use may be harmful for the human
body. [Puma Ayurvedic Herbal (P) Ltd. v. CCE (2006) 3 SCC 266, State of
Goa v. Colfax Laboratories Ltd. (2004) 9 SCC 83 and B.P.L. Pharmaceuticals
Ltd. v. CCE 1995 Supp (3) SCC 1.]
62
35. However, there cannot be a static parameter for the correct classification
of a commodity. This Court in Indian Aluminium Cables Ltd. v. Union of India
(1985) 3 SCC 284 has culled out this principle in the following words: (SCC p.
291, para 13)
“13. To sum up the true position, the process of manufacture of
a product and the end use to which it is put, cannot
necessarily be determinative of the classification of that
product under a fiscal schedule like the Central Excise Tariff.
What is more important is whether the broad description of the
article fits in with the expression used in the Tariff.”
36. Moreover, the functional utility and predominant or primary usage of the
commodity which is being classified must be taken into account, apart from
the understanding in common parlance. [See O.K. Play (India) Ltd. v. CCE
(2005) 2 SCC 460, Alpine Industries v. CCE (2003) 3 SCC 111, Sujanil
Chemo Industries v. CCE & Customs (2005) 4 SCC 189, ICPA Health
Products (P) Ltd. v. CCE (2004) 4 SCC 481, Puma Ayurvedic Herbal (2006) 3
SCC 266, Ishaan Research Lab (P) Ltd. (2008) 13 SCC 349 and CCE v. Uni
Products India Ltd. (2009) 9 SCC 295]
37. A commodity cannot be classified in a residuary entry, in the presence of
a specific entry, even if such specific entry requires the product to be
understood in the technical sense (see Akbar Badrudin Giwani v. Collector of
Customs (1990) 2 SCC 203 and Commr. of Customs v. G.C. Jain (2011) 12
SCC 713). A residuary entry can be taken refuge of only in the absence of a
specific entry; that is to say, the latter will always prevail over the former [see
CCE v. Jayant Oil Mills (P) Ltd. (1989) 3 SCC 343, HPL Chemicals Ltd. v.
CCE (2006) 5 SCC 208, Western India Plywoods Ltd. v. Collector of Customs
(2005) 12 SCC 731 and CCE v. Carrier Aircon Ltd. (2006) 5 SCC 596].
40. In Commissioner of Central Excise, Delhi v. Carrier Aircon Ltd. (2006)
5 SCC 596, this Court held as under:-
"14. End use to which the product is put to by itself cannot be determinative
of the classification of the product. See Indian Aluminium Cables Ltd. v.
Union of India (1985) 3 SCC 284. There are a number of factors which have
to be taken into consideration for determining the classification of a product.
For the purposes of classification the relevant factors inter alia are statutory
fiscal entry, the basic character, function and use of the goods. When a
commodity falls within a tariff entry by virtue of the purpose for which it is put
to (produced), the end use to which the product is put to, cannot determine
the classification of that product."
41. Chapter 15 of Section 3 of Central Excise Tariff deals with "Animal or
Vegetable fats and Oils and their cleavage products; prepared edible fats;
Animal or Vegetable Waxes". Sub-Heading 1513 deals with coconut
(copra). Before considering the contentious issues as to the classification
63
of the impugned goods, it is necessary to point out as to how 'Coconut Oil'
is understood and treated in the market.
42. In Jain Exports Pvt. Ltd. v. Union of India 1987 (29) ELT 753 Del, the
High Court of Delhi dealt with the use of 'Coconut Oil' and in the context of
importability of 'Coconut Oil', held as under:-
"25. ....it is well known that the coconut oil is not at all used as an edible oil in
a very large part of our country. Almost all the parts of India up to Vindhyas
do not use coconut oil as edible medium. Even in rest of the country though
it is in use extensively in some very small part, its use in most of the other
part is small average. So ordinarily if a person was to go to the market and
ask for coconut oil, the normal question he would be asked will be whether he
needs it as hair oil or shampoo. No one normally will understand coconut oil
to mean only edible variety because such is not the normal major use. A
person would have to specifically clarify that by asking for coconut oil he is
asking for edible variety in order to make his intention clear. Thus by itself
and in ordinary parlance coconut oil in the import policy would be understood
to include both edible variety and industrial variety of coconut oil. If only one
variety of coconut oil was meant to be covered, it would be more consistent to
hold that it is industrial variety considering the overwhelming use of coconut
oil for non-edible purpose. But an entry would never be restricted only to
edible variety of coconut oil......". [Underlining added]
Though the above observation is in the context of importability of 'Coconut
Oil', the factum of overwhelming use of 'Coconut Oil' and as to coconut oil
is normally understood as 'Hair Oil' cannot be ignored. It is a matter of
common knowledge that in many parts of the country 'Coconut Oil' is
widely used as 'Hair Oil' and not generally used as edible oil; it is so used
as edible oil only in few areas of the country. No one will normally
understand 'Coconut Oil' to mean only as edible oil because such is not the
major use of 'edible oil'. The moment we held that the impugned goodscoconut
oil is suitable for use as 'Hair Oil' as discussed infra, it has to be
classified only under Chapter 33.
43. As pointed out earlier, Revenue relies upon number of materials that
64
those in trade, traders and consumers have understood 'Parachute' as
'Hair Oil'. In para (36) of Wockhardt Life Sciences Ltd. quoted above, this
Court laid emphasis to the "functional utility and predominant or primary
usage of the commodity" that is to be taken into account while classifying
the product. As discussed earlier, after amendment what is more relevant
is the suitability of the goods for being used as 'Hair Oil' and the usage of
the product in common parlance.
44. In the Order-in-Original No.06/2008-(C), reference is also referred to
feedback about the product by their consumers and their impressions and
experiences. It also refers to the interview of Mr. Arvind Mediratta, Head of
Marketing Division of M/s. Marico Limited stating that 'Parachute' brand is
associated with 'Hair Oil' whereas Saffola brand is associated with edible
(cooking) oil. The revenue also refers to an article in the Financial Express
dated 14.06.2001 where Mr. Srikand Gupta, Chief Executive Officer (CEO),
Nature Care Division of M/s. Marico stated that they wanted the 'Parachute'
brand to be perceived as a cosmetic brand with the utility of nourishing hair.
45. The appellant has relied upon the following write up on coconut oil by
the Coconut Development Board (a statutory body under the Ministry of
Agriculture):-
"Coconut oil is used in the country as a cooking fat, hair oil, body oil and
industrial oil..... Coconut oil is marketed in bulk as well as in packs ranging
from sachets containing 5 ml to 15 kg tins. The branded coconut oil in small
packs is mainly marketed as hair oil and body oil."
46. A taxing statute is being one levying a tax on goods must, in the
absence of a technical term or a term of science or art, be presumed to
65
have used an ordinary term as coal according to the meaning ascribed to it
in common parlance. In Commissioner of Sales Tax, Madhya Pradesh,
Indore v. Jaswant Singh Charan Singh, AIR 1967 SC 1454, it was held as
under:-
"5. The result emerging from these decisions is that while construing
the word “coal” in Entry I of Part III of Schedule II, the test that would
be applied is what would be the meaning which persons dealing with
coal and consumers purchasing it as fuel would give to that word. A
sales tax statute is being one levying a tax on goods must in the
absence of a technical term or a term of science or art, be presumed to
have used an ordinary term as coal according to the meaning ascribed
to it in common parlance. Viewed from that angle both a merchant
dealing in coal and a consumer wanting to purchase it would regard
coal not in its geological sense but in the sense as ordinarily
understood and would include “charcoal” in the term “coal”. It is only
when the question of the kind or variety of coal would arise that a
distinction would be made between coal and charcoal; otherwise, both
of them would in ordinary parlance as also in their commercial sense
be spoken as coal."
47. After referring to various judgments on the point of common parlance
test, in Commissioner of Central Excise, New Delhi v. Connaught Plaza
Restaurant Private Ltd., New Delhi (2012) 13 SCC 639, it was held as
under:-
"33. Therefore, what flows from a reading of the aforementioned decisions is
that in the absence of a statutory definition in precise terms; words, entries
and items in taxing statutes must be construed in terms of their commercial or
trade understanding, or according to their popular meaning. In other words
they have to be constructed in the sense that the people conversant with the
subject-matter of the statute, would attribute to it. Resort to rigid interpretation
in terms of scientific and technical meanings should be avoided in such
circumstances. This, however, is by no means an absolute rule. When the
legislature has expressed a contrary intention, such as by providing a
statutory definition of the particular entry, word or item in specific, scientific or
technical terms, then, interpretation ought to be in accordance with the
scientific and technical meaning and not according to common parlance
understanding."
48. In the case of Alpine Industries v. Collector of Central Excise, New
Delhi (2003) 3 SCC 111, the question was whether "Lip Salve" could be
66
classifiable as a preparation for care of skin or as a medicament. The
product was mainly supplied to the Defence Department for use by military
personnel who are posted in high-altitude areas. In Commissioner of
Central Excise, Calcutta v. Sharma Chemical Works (2003) 5 SCC 60, this
Court held that in interpreting provisions of a statute like the Excise Act, the
popular meaning as understood by the users should be applied and not the
scientific or technical meaning.
49. As held in Jain Exports Pvt. Ltd., the factum of overwhelming use of
'Coconut Oil' as 'Hair Oil' in most parts of the country cannot be ignored.
No one will normally understand 'Coconut Oil' to mean only as 'edible oil'
because such is not the major use of 'edible oil'. Applying the common
parlance test and also 'end use of the product', coconut oil is predominantly
understood by the users namely dealers/consumers only as 'Hair Oil' and
not as 'edible oil' and hence, classifiable only under Chapter 33 and not
under Chapter 15.
50. After the amendment (w.e.f. 28.02.2005) what is relevant is
'suitability of the goods for being used as Hair Oil' for classifying the same
under 33.05. 'Coconut Oil' packed in small sachets/containers suitable for
being used as 'Hair Oil' is classifiable under Chapter Tariff Item 3305.
When a good is classifiable under tariff item 3305, by virtue of amended
Section Note 2 to Section VI, no other classification is permissible. By
consideration of the materials placed on record and also applying the
'Common Parlance Test', coconut oil packed in small sachets/containers
67
understood in the market by dealers/consumers as 'Hair Oil' is classifiable
under Chapter 33, tariff item 33 05. In the case of MAIPL, 'Coconut Oil'
packed in small sachets/containers suitable for being used as 'Hair Oil' are
classifiable under Chapter 3305. In case of 'Parachute', this is further
fortified by various materials placed on record and also registration of its
Trademark No.1033842 Class-3 Parachute associated with "Hair Oil, Hair
lotion etc."
51. Re. Contention HSN Notes to Chapter Note 3 of Chapter 33 is the
same as it was prior to amendment:- The Tribunal held that "HSN
Explanatory Notes to Chapter 33 were same before and after 28.02.2005."
Moreover, Notes under Chapter 15 relating to 'Coconut Oil' in the HSN and
Central Excise Tariff after 28.02.2005 are also identical. Mr. Bagaria,
learned senior counsel for the assessee urged that the changes brought
about by the amendment to Chapter Note 3 of Chapter 33 is of no
significance since HSN Notes to Chapter Note 3 of Chapter 33 is exactly
the same as in the Central Excise Tariff prior to amendment. It was
submitted that Explanatory Notes in HSN clarified the purport, meaning,
scope and effect of Chapter Note 3 of Chapter 33. It was submitted that
since Central Excise Tariff is based on HSN, for resolving any dispute
relating to tariff classification, HSN is a safe guide. In this regard, reliance
is placed upon Collector of Central Excise, Shillong v. Woods Craft Product
Ltd. (1995) 3 SCC 454, Commissioner of Customs and Central Excise, Goa
v. Phil Corporation Limited (2008) 17 SCC 569 and O.K. Play (India) Ltd. v.
68
Commissioner of Central Excise, Delhi-III, Gurgaon (2005) 2 SCC 460.
52. The Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System (HS) of
tariff nomenclature, generally referred to as the "Harmonized System of
Nomenclature (HSN)" is an internationally standardized system of names
and numbers for classifying traded products, developed and maintained by
the World Customs Organization (WCO) (formerly the Customs Cooperation
Council), an independent inter-governmental organization
[Source: World Customs Organization:http:// www.
wcoomd.org/en/topics/nomenclature/overview/what-is-the-harmonized-system.
aspx]. Along with the HSN, are the Explanatory Notes. They do not form an
integral part of the Harmonized System Convention. However, as
approved by the WCO Council, they constitute the official interpretation of
the Harmonized System at the international level and are an indispensable
complement to the System. [World Customs Council, retrieved from:
http://www.wcoomd.org/ en/topics/nomenclature/instrument-and-tools/tools-to-assistwith-the-classification-in-the-hs/explanatory-notes.aspx].

53. The Central Excise Tariff Act, 1985 (CETA) is based on the
Harmonized System of Nomenclature (HSN), which is an internationally
accepted product coding system formulated under the auspice of the
General Agreement on Tariffs Trade (GATT). In Commissioner of Customs
and Central Excise, Goa v. Phil Corporation Ltd. (2008) 17 SCC 569, this
Court explained the HSN as under:-
"29. ...The Central Excise Tariff Act is broadly based on the system of
classification from the international convention called the Brussels
69
Convention on the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System
(Harmonized System of Nomenclature) with necessary modifications. HSN
contains a list of all the possible goods that are traded (including animals,
human, hair, etc.) and as such the mention of an item has got nothing to do
whether it is manufactured and taxable or not"
54. HSN Explanatory Notes provide a commentary on the scope of each
heading, giving a list of the main products included and excluded, together
with technical description of the goods concerned (their appearance,
properties, method of production and uses) and practical guidance for their
identification. The Explanatory Notes also clarify the scope of particular
sub-headings wherever appropriate. However, HSN or the Explanatory
Notes thereon cannot supersede the relevant notes contained in the Tariff
Schedule. They can be relied upon as a safe guide in cases of doubt.
55. In the case in hand, we are concerned with classification of goods -
'Coconut Oil' between two Chapters both falling within first Schedule to
Central Excise Tariff Act, 1985. For proper appreciation, we may usefully
refer to the relevant HSN Explanatory Notes relating to Chapter 33 and
Chapter 33 of CETA Tariff Notes:-
HSN Explanatory Notes CETA Tariff Notes
Chapter 33
Essential Oils and Resinoids;
Perfumery, Cosmetic or Toilet Preparations
Chapter Notes:
..........
3. Heading 33.03 to 33.07 apply, inter alia, to
products, whether or not mixed (other than
aqueous distillates and aqueous solutions of
essential oils), suitable for use as goods of these
headings and put up in packings of a kind sold by
retail for such use.
General
...........
Headings 33.03 to 33.07 include products, whether
or not mixed (other than aqueous distillates and
aqueous solutions of essential oils), suitable for use
Chapter 33
Essential Oils and Resinoids,
Perfumery, Cosmetic or Toilet
Preparations
Notes:
..................
3. Heading 3303 to 3307 apply, inter alia,
to products, whether or not mixed (other
than aqueous distillates and aqueous
solutions of essential oils), suitable for use
as goods of these headings and put up in
packings of a kind sold by retails for such
use.
70
as goods of these headings and put up in packings
of a kind sold by retail for such use (see Note 3 to
this Chapter).
The products of headings 33.03 to 33.07 remain in
these headings whether or not they contain
subsidiary pharmaceutical or disinfectant
constituents, or are held out as having subsidiary
therapeutic or prophylactic value (see Note 1(d) to
Chapter 30). However, prepared room deodorizers
remain classified in heading 33.07 even if they
have disinfectant properties of more than a
subsidiary nature.
Preparation (e.g. varnish) and unmixed products
(e.g. unperfumed powdered talc, fuller's earth,
acetone, alum) which are suitable for other uses in
addition to those described above are classified in
these headings only when they are:-
(a) In packings of a kind sold to the consumer
and put up with labels, literature or other
indications that they are for use as
perfumery, cosmetic or toilet preparations,
or as room deodorizers; or
(b) Put up in a form clearly specialized to such
use (e.g. nail varnish put up in small bottles
furnished with the brush required for
applying the varnish).
33.05 -PREPARATIONS FOR USE ON THE HAIR
................
This heading covers:-
1. ........
2. .........
3. ..........
4. Other hair preparations, such as
brilliantines, hair oils, creams ("pomades")
and dressings, hair dyes and bleaches
used on the hair; cream-rinses
3305- Preparations for use on the
hair
...............
3305 90 - Other
 -- Hair Oil
56. So far as Chapter Note 3 to Chapter 33, CETA Amendment Act, 2004
has the same Chapter Note as the HSN. However, the general explanation
of HSN adds further conditions for the product to be classifiable under
Chapter 33 regarding packings of a kind sold to the consumer and put up
with labels and literatures that they are for use for such purpose. To put it
in other words, Chapter Note 3 to Chapter 33 as contained in the HSN,
71
General Explanation to the said HSN Notes places certain conditions, i.e.:-
(a) [when the goods are] In packings of a kind sold to the
consumer and put up with labels, literature or indications
that they are for use as perfumery, cosmetic or toilet
preparations, or as room deodorizers; or
(b) Put up in a form clearly specialized to such use (e.g. nail
varnish put up in small bottles furnished with the brush
required for applying the varnish).
It is important to note that the pre-amended Schedule (prior to CETA
amendment) also had the same rigours as HSN Notes such as "the product
requiring labels and literatures including the specialized use" (as Chapter
Note 2 to Chapter 33). However, after the amendment with effect from
28.02.2005, the Parliament consciously chose not to impose or place the
same rigours for classification of goods under this Heading and deleted the
same. The Parliament intentionally and consciously deleted these
conditions in the new (renumbered) Chapter Note 3 to Chapter 33 of the
Tariff Schedule to the CETA. Therefore, to apply these conditions, postamendment
would be against the intent of the Parliament. Hence, HSN
Chapter Note cannot be relied upon to determine the classification rather
the CETA Tariff Chapter Note must be considered.
57. The relevant HSN Explanatory Notes and competing CETA Tariff Note,
insofar as Section Note 2 to Section VI is as under:-
HSN Explanatory Notes CETA Tariff Notes
Section VI
Products of the Chemical or Allied Industries
Section Notes.
Section VI
Products of the Chemical or Allied
Industries
72
........
2. Subject to Note 1 above, goods classifiable in
Heading Nos. 30.04, 30.05, 30.06, 32.12, 33.03,
33.04, 33.05, 33.06, 33.07, 35.06, 37.07 or 38.08
by reason of being put up in measured doses or for
retail sale are to be classified in those headings
and in no other heading of the Nomenclature.
3. Goods put up in sets consisting of two or more
separate constituents, some or all of which fall in
this Section and are intended to be mixed together
to obtain a product of Section VI or VII, are to be
classified in the heading appropriate to that
product, provided that the constituents are:-
(a) having regard to the manner in which they
are put up, clearly identifiable as being
intended to be used together without first
being repacked;
(b) presented together; and
(c) identifiable, whether by their nature or by
the relative proportions in which they are
present, as being complementary one to
another.
General
Section Note 1
.........
 Section Note 2
Section Note 2 provides that goods (other than
those described in headings 28.43 to 28.46) which
are covered by heading 30.04, 30.05, 30.06, 32.12,
33.03, 33.04, 33.05, 33.06, 33.07, 35.06, 37.07 or
38.08 by reason of being put up in measured doses
or for retail sale are to be classified in those
headings notwithstanding that they could also fall in
some other heading of the Nomenclature. For
example, sulphur put up for retail sale for
therapeutic purposes is classified in heading 30.04
and not in Heading 25.03 or 28.02, and dextrin put
up for retail sale as a glue is classified in heading
35.06 and not in heading 35.05.
After amendment
Notes:
...........
2. Subject to Note 1 above, goods
classifiable in Headings 3004, 3005,
3006, 3212, 3303, 3304, 3305, 3306,
3307, 3506, 3707 or 3308 by reason of
being put up in measured doses or for
retail sale are to be classified in those
headings and in no other heading of this
schedule.
58. As discussed earlier, CETA Amendment Act, 2004 amended Section
Note 2 to Section VI. The rigours placed for a product to be classified
under these Headings are not prevalent in the CETA although they are
prevalent in the HSN. The legislature consciously chose not to import the
conditions and rigours placed in the HSN Explanatory Notes and the
following as found in HSN does not find place in the amended Section Note
73
2 to Section VI:-
"(a) having regard to the manner in which they are put up,
clearly identifiable as being intended to be used
together without first being repacked;
(b) presented together; and
(c) identifiable, whether by their nature or by the relative
proportions in which they are present, as being
complementary one to another."
It is clear from the above, that the HSN General Explanatory Notes to
Section VI are to an extent in conflict with the Notes contained in Tariff
Schedule to the Central Excise Tariff Act, 1985. Therefore, the Notes
contained in the Central Excise Tariff Act shall prevail over the Notes
contained in HSN.
59. In Collector of Central Excise, Shillong v. Woods Craft Product Ltd.
(1995) 3 SCC 454, this Court held HSN is a safe guide for interpretation
and entitled to great consideration. The relevant portion of the said
judgment is as under:-
"12. It is significant, as expressly stated, in the Statement of Objects and
Reasons, that the Central excise tariffs are based on the HSN and the
internationally accepted nomenclature was taken into account to “reduce
disputes on account of tariff classification”. Accordingly, for resolving any
dispute relating to tariff classification, a safe guide is the internationally
accepted nomenclature emerging from the HSN. This being the expressly
acknowledged basis of the structure of Central excise tariff in the Act and the
tariff classification made therein, in case of any doubt the HSN is a safe guide
for ascertaining the true meaning of any expression used in the Act. The ISI
Glossary of Terms has a different purpose and, therefore, the specific
purpose of tariff classification for which the internationally accepted
nomenclature in HSN has been adopted, for enacting the Central Excise Tariff
Act, 1985, must be preferred, in case of any difference between the meaning
of the expression given in the HSN and the meaning of that term given in the
Glossary of Terms of the ISI."
74
60. However, in Camlin Ltd. v. Commissioner of Central Excise, Mumbai
(2008) 9 SCC 82, this Court held that if the entries under HSN and the
entries under the Central Excise Tariff Act are different then reliance cannot
be placed upon HSN Notes for the purposes of classification of goods under
the Central Excise Tariff. The relevant portion of the said judgment is as
under:-
"24. In our considered view, the Tribunal erred in relying upon the HSN for
the purpose of marker inks in classifying them under Chapter Sub-Heading
3215.90 of the said Tariff. The Tribunal failed to appreciate that the entries
under the HSN and the entries under the said Tariff are completely different.
As mentioned above, it is settled law that when the entries in the HSN and
the said Tariff are not aligned, reliance cannot be placed upon HSN for the
purpose of classification of goods under the said Tariff. One of the factors on
which the Tribunal based its conclusion is the entries in the HSN. The said
conclusion in the order of the Tribunal is, therefore, vitiated and, accordingly,
set aside. We agree with the findings recorded by the Commissioner
(Appeals)."
61. As discussed earlier, after the amendment to CETA, there is a
material difference between the relevant notes provided in the HSN as
against those provided in the Tariff Schedule to the CETA, 1985. The
general explanation as provided in the HSN cannot be applied as they
stand to explain the Notes in the HSN which is materially different from the
Notes contained in the Tariff Schedule of the CETA. In instances of conflict,
the Notes contained in the Tariff Schedule to the CETA will prevail over that
of the HSN. One of the factors on which the Tribunal based its conclusion
was the entries in HSN and its observation that entries in HSN to Chapter
33 and CETA Tariff Notes of Chapter 33 are one and the same even after
amendment. In my view, the Tribunal erred in not keeping in view the
principles laid down by this Court in Camlin Ltd. case that when the Notes
75
in HSN and the Tariff are not aligned, reliance cannot be placed upon the
HSN for the purpose of classification of the goods.
62. Circular No.145/56/95-CX dated 31.08.1995 was issued in the context
of classification of 'Coconut Oil' under the Central Excise Tariff as it existed
prior to the amendment. The said circular clarified that for classification of
'Coconut Oil' under Chapter 33 (as 'Hair Oil'), it must satisfy the
requirements of Chapter Note 2 of Chapter 33. As per the said circular,
though 'Coconut Oil' may be capable of being used as 'Hair Oil', the
product must satisfy the criteria of label/literature on packing of 'Coconut
Oil' showing its use as 'Hair Oil' as per Note 2 to Chapter 33. The relevant
part of the Circular dated 31.08.1995 is as under:-
"6. .....In the CET Heading 3305 covers "preparations for use on the hair".
......
9. Therefore, keeping in view of Chapter Notes, HSN Notes, the Tariff
Conference of 1991, the report of D.G. (A.E.) and the opinion of Chief
Chemist, CRCL, it is felt that coconut oil whether pure or refined and whether
packed in small or large containers merits classification under Heading
No.1503 as long as it satisfies the criteria of 'fixed vegetable oil' laid down in
Chapter Note 3 of Chapter 15. It is also clarified that if the containers bear
labels/literature, etc., indicating that it is meant for application on hair, as
specified under Note 2 of Chapter 33 and/or if the coconut oil has additives
(other than BHA) or has undergone processes which made it a preparation
for use on hair as mentioned in Chapter Note 6 of Chapter 33 then the
coconut oil may merit classification under Chapter 33."
63. In exercise of powers under Section 37B of Central Excise Act, 1944,
CBEC issued Circular No.102/05/2006-CX-3 dated 03.06.2009 withdrawing
the Circular No. 145/56/95-CX dated 31.08.1995. After referring to the
amendment and old and new Chapter Notes and Section Notes, the
Circular stated that the 'Coconut Oil' packed in small containers of sizes
upto 200 ml shall be classified under Heading 3305. The relevant portion
76
of the said Circular reads as under:-
"5. .....Hence, in view of the amendments/insertion of Chapter Note and
Section Note, the classification of coconut oil would depend upon the fact as
to how the majority of the customers use the said product. Therefore, if
coconut oil is packed in packages which are generally meant for sale in retail
as hair oil, in that case, the said product would be classified as hair oil under
heading 3305, even though few consumers may use it as edible oil.
Through field survey, it has been gathered that smaller packs upto the sizes
of 200ml are normally used as hair oil by the customers. It has also been
reported that in small pack sizes upto 200ml are stacked along with other hair
oil care preparations/cosmetics and not in edible oil section in the retail
shops. Enquiries also reveal that small packs of coconut oil displayed at the
hair care shelves are used as hair oil only and the customer ask for the
smaller packages or the sachets for using them as 'hair oil'.
6. In view of foregoing discussion, it is concluded that coconut oil packed in
containers upto 200ml may be considered as generally used as hair oil. This
would bring uniformity in assessment in respect of coconut oil sold in small
containers irrespective of the fact as to whether its use as hair oil is indicated
on containers/labels or not. Therefore, following instructions/directions are
issued:-
(i) Circular No. 145/56/95-CX dated 31.08.1995 stands withdrawn.
(ii) the coconut oil packed in small container of sizes upto 200ml shall be
classified under heading 3305."
64. In Raj Oil Mills Ltd. v. Commissioner, Central Excise 2014 (314) ELT
541 (Tri. - Mumbai), it was held that repacking of 'Edible Grade Coconut
Oil' from bulk pack to retail pack of 200 ml and less are not classifiable
under Chapter 33 of Central Excise Tariff which covers "cosmetic or toilet
preparations" rather it would be classifiable under Chapter 15 which covers
"animal or vegetable fats and oils and their cleavage products".
Challenging the judgment of the Tribunal in Raj Mills Ltd. case, the appeals
preferred by the Revenue in CA Nos. 2023-37 of 2014 were dismissed on
17.12.2014 by holding as under:-
"1. We have heard learned Additional Solicitor General appearing for
the Revenue.
2. Delay condoned.
3. We find no merit in the Civil Appeals. The Civil Appeals are
dismissed."
After the judgment of the Supreme Court, the Circular dated 03.06.2009
77
was withdrawn by another Circular No.103/01/2015-CX-3 dated
12.10.2015. Now, the issue of classification of 'Coconut Oil' as per the
Circular dated 12.10.2015 is to be decided by the field by taking into
consideration the facts of the case read with the judicial pronouncements.
Merely because the 'Coconut Oil' of retail pack of 200 ml or less are not
classifiable under Chapter 33 of the Central Excise Tariff and the civil
appeals preferred by the Revenue were dismissed by the Supreme Court,
it does not mean that it has attained finality. As pointed out earlier, civil
appeals preferred by the Revenue were dismissed by a non-speaking
order at the admission stage and hence, the "Doctrine of Merger" is not
applicable. When the order passed by the Supreme Court is not a
speaking order, it is not correct to assume that the Supreme Court had
decided implicitly all the questions in relation to the merits of the order.
Now, the position (as per Circular dated 12.10.2015) is to decide the issue
of classification by the field taking into consideration the facts of the case
read with judicial pronouncements.
65. Conclusion: Impugned orders of the Tribunal are set aside and the
appeals preferred by the revenue are allowed with the following findings:-
i. Tribunal is not right in holding that Chapter 15 covers all varieties
of 'coconut oil' both edible and non-edible. The judgments relied
upon by the Tribunal and the Board's circular dated 31.08.1995
were prior to 2004 amendment. The Tribunal was not right in
relying upon the earlier orders/circular dated 31.08.1995 prior to
amendment to base its conclusion that coconut oil both edible
and non-edible merits classification under Chapter 15. Hence the
78
impugned orders of the Tribunal are liable to be set aside.
ii. After the amendment (w.e.f. 28.02.2005) what is relevant is
'suitability of the goods for being used as Hair Oil' for classifying
the same under 33.05. 'Coconut Oil' packed in small
sachets/containers suitable for being used as 'Hair Oil' is
classifiable under Chapter Tariff Item 3305. When a good is
classifiable under tariff item 3305, by virtue of amended Section
Note 2 to Section VI, no other classification is permissible.
iii. Rule 3(a) states that the most specific description will be
preferred over the more general one. In the present case, when
item description is read with the Chapter Notes, Section Notes
and the tests for classification that is Tariff Item 1513.19.00 and
3305.90.19 are equally specific. Hence, as per Rule 3(c), when
goods cannot be classified by reference to (a) or (b), they shall be
classified under the heading which occurs last in numerical order
among those which equally merit classification. Hence, the
coconut oil manufactured by the respondents could rightly be
classified under heading 3305.90.19, as it occurs last in the
numerical order of the tariff.
iv. By consideration of the materials placed on record and also
applying the 'Common Parlance Test', coconut oil packed in small
sachets/containers understood in the market by
dealers/consumers as 'Hair Oil' is classifiable under Chapter 33,
tariff item 33 05.
v. After the amendment to Central Excise Tariff Act (w.e.f.
28.02.2005), there is material difference between the relevant
Explanatory Notes in the HSN as against those provided in the
Tariff Schedule to Central Excise Tariff Act, 1985. As held in
Camlin Ltd. v. Commissioner of Central Excise, Mumbai
(2008) 9 SCC 82, when the Explanatory Notes in the HSN and
the Notes tariff schedule are not aligned, reliance cannot be
placed upon HSN for the purpose of classification of goods.
79
vi. In the case of MAIPL, 'Coconut Oil' packed in small
sachets/containers suitable for being used as 'Hair Oil' are
classifiable under Chapter 3305. In case of 'Parachute', this is
further fortified by various materials placed on record and also
registration of its Trademark No.1033842 Class-3 Parachute
associated with "Hair Oil, Hair lotion etc."
vii. Circular dated 03.06.2009 and dismissal of appeals preferred by
the Revenue in CA Nos. 2023-37 of 2014 (dated 17.12.2014) at
the admission stage by non-speaking order, the 'Doctrine of
Merger' is not applicable.
…………….……………J.
[R. BANUMATHI]
New Delhi;
April 13, 2018
80
REPORTABLE
IN THE SUPREME COURT OF INDIA
CIVIL APPELLATE JURISDICTION
CIVIL APPEAL NO.1766 OF 2009
COMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE            ...APPELLANT
      VERSUS
MADHAN AGRO INDUSTRIES (I) PVT. LTD.   ...RESPONDENT
WITH
CIVIL APPEAL Nos.6703­6710 OF 2009
O R D E R
In view of the difference of opinion in terms
of   the   judgments   pronounced   by   us   in   the   present
appeals,   the   Registry   is   directed   to   place   the   said
appeals before Hon’ble the Chief Justice of India for
appropriate orders.
……………...............J.
            (RANJAN GOGOI)
…………….……………J.
       [R. BANUMATHI]
NEW DELHI;
APRIL 13, 2018