Every year, India marks the 24th of December as National Consumer Day. A tradition that began following the implementation of the Consumer Protection Act in 1986, this national event emphasizes the ever-growing need for consumer awareness and education. The focus is on both the rights consumers have and the responsibilities they carry when engaging in various markets and sectors. It’s a day that holds historical significance and continues to reflect India’s commitment to consumer-related issues.
National Consumer Day: A Historical Overview
On the 24th of December 1986, the Indian Consumer Protection Act received the President’s assent and was officially enacted. This was a landmark occasion in India’s legal history as it marked a strategic step towards prioritizing consumer rights and protection. The implementation of this Act led to the annual celebration of National Consumer Day. Each year, there is a unique theme chosen to guide the day’s activities and discussions. In 2019, the theme was “Alternate consumer grievance/dispute redressal”, underscoring the need for innovative methods of addressing and resolving consumer disputes.
Importance of Consumer Rights and Responsibilities
The main objective of National Consumer Day is to make every consumer more cognizant of their rights and responsibilities. Understanding one’s rights as a consumer can empower individuals to make informed decisions, avoid fraudulent schemes, and seek recourse in cases of unfair trade practices. On the other hand, acknowledge of consumer responsibilities encourages ethical buying behaviour, which is equally crucial in promoting fair-trade and maintaining a balanced marketplace.
World Consumer Rights Day
In addition to the national observance, India also participates in global efforts to promote consumer rights through the World Consumer Rights Day. Celebrated annually on March 15th, the World Consumer Rights Day provides an international platform to highlight consumer rights issues globally.
| Event | Date | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| National Consumer Day | December 24th | Highlight the importance of consumer rights and responsibilities in India |
| World Consumer Rights Day | March 15th | Global celebration to raise awareness about consumer rights worldwide |
The Consumer Protection Act, 2019
In an effort to consistently update and improve consumer protections, the Indian Parliament passed the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 in August of the same year. This Act was introduced to replace its predecessor, the Consumer Protection Act, 1986. The new legislation is indicative of India’s ongoing commitment to evolve and strengthen mechanisms for consumer protection. It underscores the continuing relevance and importance of National Consumer Day, as it provides an annual opportunity to spotlight these crucial issues and promote consumer education.