Every year, December 24th is celebrated as National Consumer Day in India. It reminds the importance of consumer rights and the responsibilities associated with being a consumer while highlighting the government's effort to create awareness so citizens can make responsible decisions in the marketplace.

Why is National Consumer Day celebrated?

National Consumer Day is important because it was on December 24, 1986, when the Consumer Protection Act of 1986 was enacted in India. This act gave consumers a legal platform to fight against unfair trade practices, defective goods, and deficient services. It also laid the foundation for consumer protection councils and redressal forums to address grievances promptly and fairly.

It is not just a day for lawyers but the acknowledgement of consumer power in creating markets. Knowing consumers brings ethical business conduct, transparency, and accountability to the marketplace.

Consumer Rights in India

The Consumer Protection Act gives consumers at least six fundamental rights guaranteed to be met with each consumable purchase, as discussed.

• Right to Safety: Protection from harmful goods and services likely to cause injury to life or property.
• Right to Information: The consumers have the right to know the quality, quantity, and price of goods and services.
• Right to Choose: The right to choose any good or service they like, free from coercion.
• Right to Being Heard: It ensures the customer complaint is heard and redressed.
• Right to Redressal: The right to redressal for the exploitation or defective products sold.
• Right to Consumer Education: education and information campaigns to create consumer awareness about rights and responsibilities.

Role of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019

The Consumer Protection Act in 2019 was amended to cope with the challenges of the digital age. The new law has brought stricter regulations through penalties for misleading advertisements and product manufacturers' liability, in addition to establishing a Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA).

This new law further expanded its coverage to include electronic-commerce transactions, meaning consumers buying over the Internet would enjoy similar rights as those shopping at brick-and-mortar stores. This was one of the most critical steps in the digital age, as buying products online has become part of people's daily routines.

The theme of National Consumer Day 2024

Every year, National Consumer Day is taken with a particular theme. In this regard, the theme adapted for this very year, 2024, is "Digital Empowerment for Consumers." More importance is given to making consumers aware of online safety, e-commerce fraud prevention, and safe payment through this day. It expands into dependency on the digital platform and the making of the astute consumer.

How do consumers defend themselves?

Consumers have a very important role in ensuring their rights are protected. Here are some practical tips to safeguard yourself as a consumer:

• Be vigilant: Always check the labels, dates of expiration, and conditions of a good or service before purchasing it.
• Keep the receipts: you may want to use them later or when you need to complain.
• Verify Authenticity: Shop from reputable brands and check the authenticity of products, especially when purchasing online.
• Report Grievances: If you suffer unfair trade practices, present a complaint before the consumer forums or the CCPA.
• Be aware of fraud: avoid transactions that look too good to be true and appear especially attractive through digital space.

The Role of Consumer Forums and Organisations

Consumer forums and organisations are major instruments for creating awareness and redressing grievances. The bodies include the Consumer Guidance Society of India (CGSI) and local consumer courts, which help consumers settle disputes and get compensation. These bodies also pressure businesses to be ethical by enlightening consumers about their rights.

Consumer awareness is critical in modern times. In this fast-paced, connected world, awareness among consumers is the most crucial requirement in today's world. Online transactions are rising, technology is improving rapidly, and choices abound, so consumers must remain vigilant in their decision-making process. Consumer awareness would help understand consumer rights and be on one's toes to save from fraudsters who seek opportunities to loot. Moreover, empowered consumers in the marketplace would make the market buoyant. Businesses must deliver better products and services if consumers demand transparency, fair pricing, and quality. This is a win-win situation for both consumers and the economy. 

Conclusion 

National Consumer Day is the consumer's voice to celebrate and remind consumers how much power they hold as the voice in changing market influences. It inspires people to raise their voices for their rights, be informative, and help a fairer marketplace. So, let's never forget that each small act of a consumer will impact and build a better, more significant, and ethical future for everyone. Being informed and proactive can help us safeguard our interests and inspire businesses to prioritise integrity and quality. Together, let's uphold the spirit of National Consumer Day and continue to build a fair, transparent, and consumer-friendly marketplace.