India’s Development Linked to Consumer Awareness

Jaipur : Minister of Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs, Mr. Sumit Godara, emphasized that India’s development is closely tied to consumer awareness and the protection of consumer interests.

Addressing officials and employees at a workshop on grievance redressal and procedural training for the State and District Commissions, organized by the Department of Consumer Affairs at the Indira Gandhi Panchayati Raj Sansthan auditorium, Mr. Godara said that both rural and urban areas are advancing in a revolutionary manner, with increasing employment opportunities. “Consumers’ awareness will lead to the development of Rajasthan, and consequently, the country,” he added.

He noted that the department had previously campaigned for gas cylinders and measuring scales. Going forward, these initiatives will be ongoing rather than time-limited campaigns, with the department continually working to protect consumer interests and raise awareness.

Mr. Godara stressed the importance of increasing consumer awareness not only in urban areas but also in rural regions. He suggested that fair price shops could play a role in educating the public about consumer rights and helplines. He also urged that individuals deprived of government scheme benefits should receive their entitlements.

The minister encouraged participants to implement the suggestions made during the training and welcomed any valuable feedback, assuring that it could be given to him personally without fear.

Judge and Chairman of the State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, Shri Devendra Kumar Kachhwaha, remarked that every citizen is a consumer, either directly or indirectly. He emphasized the need for timely submission of complaints, in line with legal provisions, in consumer forums. Consumer protection has been ongoing for the 37 years since the enactment of the Consumer Act, he said.

Shri Kachhwaha further noted that complainants can now file grievances from wherever they reside, but they must do so within two years. A 30-day window is set for responses to complaints. He detailed penalties for adulteration cases, noting that a fine of Rs 5 lakh is imposed if a person becomes ill due to adulterated goods, and Rs 17 lakh in case of death. He highlighted significant Supreme Court judgments in consumer protection cases.

Principal Government Secretary Shri Subir Kumar underscored that as consumers, buying and selling are daily activities. He pointed out the need for consumers to understand how to file complaints in state and district consumer forums and urged for quality assurance when purchasing items such as gold jewelry. He encouraged trainees to grasp all aspects of consumer protection and approach the training with enthusiasm.

He also mentioned that the department’s helpline has been receiving a strong response and is functioning effectively.

During the workshop, a special issue of Consumer Awareness magazine and a Consumer Care (Complaint Guide) were released.

Mrs. Poonam Prasad Sagar, Director of the Consumer Affairs Department, welcomed the participants and outlined the workshop’s objectives. Mr. Ashok Sharma, Registrar of the State Commission, delivered the vote of thanks.