Liquidated Damages
Full Form of LQD
What is LQD?
Liquidated Damages (LQD) is a fixed sum of money agreed upon by parties in a contract, payable by one party to the other if a specific breach, typically delay or non-performance, occurs. In India, LQD is widely used in construction, infrastructure, and government procurement contracts to provide a clear, pre-determined remedy without the need for costly litigation to prove actual losses. Governed by Section 74 of the Indian Contract Act, 1872, LQD clauses must represent a genuine pre-estimate of loss rather than a penalty, as Indian courts may reduce excessive amounts. The term is commonly invoked when contractors miss project deadlines, suppliers fail to deliver on time, or service level agreements are breached. For law students and professionals preparing for exams like CLAT, AIBE, or judicial services, understanding the distinction between liquidated damages and penalties is critical. LQD helps businesses manage risk, ensures timely performance, and offers a practical tool for dispute resolution in the Indian legal framework.
LQD का फुल फॉर्म
तरल क्षतिपूर्ति
Example
The highway project contract specified LQD of ₹5 lakh per day for delays, which the contractor had to pay when the road opening was postponed by three months.