Pakistan, July 14 -- BENGALURU - India is preparing to implement a new rule that would require all air conditioners sold in the country to have a minimum temperature setting of 20degC (68degF). The move is aimed at reducing power consumption in one of the world's fastest-growing markets for cooling appliances.

Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar proposed the change in June, stating that it could help save significant amounts of electricity in a country with over 1.4 billion people. Currently, most ACs can be set as low as 17degC (62degF), but experts say each degree increase can cut energy use by up to 6%.

Although the rule is expected to take effect soon, officials have not announced a confirmed date. Public response has been mixed. Som...