National Consumer Day: A Tribute to Consumer Rights
National Consumer Day, celebrated annually on December 24, marks the enactment of the Consumer Protection Act, 1986. This landmark legislation safeguards consumers against exploitation and unfair trade practices. For 2024, the theme is “Virtual Hearings & Digital Access to Consumer Justice”, highlighting technological advancements in consumer rights.
New Initiatives to Empower Consumers 📢
On this occasion, Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi will introduce several initiatives in New Delhi aimed at reinforcing consumer awareness and protection:
1. Jago Grahak Jago App 📲
The “Jago Grahak Jago” app educates consumers about their rights. It acts as a digital tool to empower individuals by providing critical information about safe purchases and ethical practices. The app encourages informed decision-making, fostering a more vigilant consumer base.
2. Jagriti App and Dashboard 🖥️
These tools will serve as watchdogs for identifying unfair trade practices on e-commerce platforms. By monitoring and addressing such activities, the Jagriti App and Dashboard aim to create a safer online shopping environment for consumers.
Introduction of the e-Mapp Portal 🌐
The e-Mapp portal is a significant step towards streamlining business licensing and registration processes. Designed to reduce compliance burdens, this portal will:
- Enhance transparency in business operations.
- Foster a seamless process for businesses to adhere to legal standards.
- Benefit both businesses and consumers by improving trust and accountability.
Revamped National Consumer Helpline ☎️
A new version of the National Consumer Helpline Portal will be unveiled. The updated portal comes with advanced functionalities, enabling faster and more efficient resolution of consumer grievances. Key features include:
- User-friendly navigation.
- Improved accessibility.
- Enhanced complaint tracking and resolution mechanisms.
These enhancements aim to improve consumer support services, ensuring timely assistance for complaints and queries.
E-Commerce Safety Pledge 🤝
To fortify online shopping safety, 13 major e-commerce platforms will take a voluntary Safety Pledge. This initiative focuses on:
- Preventing the sale of counterfeit or unsafe products.
- Strengthening quality assurance measures.
- Boosting consumer confidence in the rapidly growing e-commerce sector.
Platforms will work collaboratively to maintain integrity and reliability in the digital marketplace.
National Test House Expansion 🏢
The inauguration of two new National Test House facilities in Guwahati and Mumbai will mark another milestone. These centers will:
- Conduct rigorous product testing.
- Ensure compliance with quality and safety standards.
- Strengthen consumer protection by eliminating substandard goods.
This expansion underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing consumer welfare and product safety.
Quick Highlights from GKToday Notes 📘
- Jago Grahak Jago App: Aims to educate and empower consumers through awareness.
- e-Mapp Portal: Simplifies business registration and licensing while reducing compliance hurdles.
- National Consumer Helpline: Upgraded to resolve complaints swiftly and efficiently.
Conclusion: A Step Towards Consumer Empowerment 🌟
National Consumer Day 2024 reinforces the importance of consumer rights and highlights innovative measures to promote digital access to justice. The initiatives, ranging from new digital tools to expanded safety measures, showcase the government’s dedication to creating a safer and more informed consumer environment.
By embracing technology, the goal is not just to enhance convenience but to ensure fairness and trust in every transaction. Let’s celebrate this day by being aware of our rights and supporting a transparent marketplace!
