National Consumer Day 2024: Theme and What Are Consumer Rights You Need to Know

India celebrates National Consumer Day on December 24 every year. This day marks the enactment of the Consumer Protection Act, 1986. The law protects the rights of consumers and ensures fair conduct in the marketplace.

The day highlights the importance of consumer awareness and empowerment. It reminds people to know their rights when purchasing goods or services. Governments, organizations and activists work together to educate citizens about their rights.

National Consumer Day also calls on businesses to act ethically. It promotes fairness, transparency and accountability.

This day encourages everyone to be vigilant and responsible consumers, ensuring a fair and equitable market for all.

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theme meaning

  • Digital Transformation: The theme reflects the increasing reliance on digital platforms for consumer transactions and the need for effective mechanisms to address dissatisfaction arising in these environments. It underlines the Government’s commitment to adapting consumer protection law to the realities of online commerce.
  • Consumer Empowerment: By focusing on virtual hearings, this theme aims to empower consumers to more easily seek redressal of complaints without being physically present, thus reducing barriers to accessing justice.
  • Government Initiatives: On this day, various initiatives, including apps like ‘Jago Grahak Jago’ and ‘Jagriti’, will be launched to promote consumer awareness and protection in the digital era.

Key consumer rights you should know

Understanding consumer rights is critical to protecting yourself in the marketplace. Here are the six key consumer rights recognized under India’s Consumer Protection Act, 2019:

  • Right to safety: Consumers have the right to be protected from goods and services that endanger their health and life. This ensures that products meet safety standards before they reach consumers.
  • Right to Information: Consumers have the right to receive adequate information regarding the quality, quantity, potency, purity, price and standards of goods and services. This enables them to make informed choices and avoid deceptive practices.
  • Choice: Consumers should have access to a variety of goods and services at competitive prices. This right ensures that consumers can make choices based on their preferences without coercion.
  • Right to be heard: Consumers have the right to express their dissatisfaction and seek redress. This means that their complaints should be acknowledged and dealt with by the relevant authorities or service providers.
  • Right to seek compensation: Consumers can seek compensation for unfair trade practices or exploitation. This includes the right to complain to the seller or manufacturer about defective goods or inadequate service.
  • Right to Consumer Education: Consumers have the right to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to make informed decisions about goods and services. This education can help consumers better understand their rights and responsibilities.

These rights are designed to empower consumers and ensure they can navigate the market with confidence, while holding businesses accountable for their actions.

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