In the midst of the ongoing parliamentary session, the Union Minister of State for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution has brought to attention the workings of the Consumer Welfare Fund (CWF). This fund is a key driver in the government’s efforts to promote and safeguard consumer welfare. Here, we’re offering insight into the establishment of CWF, its principal goals, and sundry related initiatives.
Origins and Operation of the Consumer Welfare Fund
The CWF was established under the Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) Act of 2017. In this transition, the provisions of the consumer welfare fund rules of 1992 were absorbed into the CGST rules of 2017. The Department of Revenue, under the Ministry of Finance, set up the fund, but its operation is managed by the Department of Consumer Affairs, which falls under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution.
The Fundamental Objective
The core purpose behind setting up the CWF is to foster and shield consumer well-being. This overarching objective spawns various initiatives and efforts that directly or indirectly benefit the consumers.
Noteworthy Initiatives Under the CWF
Several initiatives have fallen under the umbrella of CWF. One effort was the creation of Consumer Law Chairs/Centers of Excellence. These have been established in esteemed institutions and universities to encourage research and training on consumer-related topics. Additionally, the CWF has funded projects aimed at enhancing consumer literacy and awareness.
Additional Related Initiatives
Beyond the CWF, other consumer awareness initiatives include the pan-India campaign ‘JagoGrahakJago’. This campaign utilizes a range of media platforms – including print, electronic, outdoor, and social media – to disseminate consumer awareness information. Other annual observances, such as World Consumer Rights Day and National Consumer Day, are also celebrated to highlight consumer rights and protections.
The Consumer Protection Act of 2019
The recent implementation of the Consumer Protection Act of 2019 is a significant addition to India’s consumer protection framework. Notably, this new Act takes into account e-commerce transactions. It has provisions allowing for electronic filing of complaints, hearings, and/or examining parties via video conferencing. These measures are aimed at making the process more efficient and less inconvenient for consumers.
The National Consumer Helpline
To further aid consumers, the government has set up the National Consumer Helpline (NCH) to address consumer grievances. This helpline is a critical component in ensuring consumer welfare and satisfaction.
Role of the Bureau of Indian Standards
Consumer awareness programs are frequently organized through the network of the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) across the country. These programs aim to promote the concept of standardization, certification, and quality consciousness among both consumers and manufacturers.
Through these various initiatives and interventions, the government continues to reinforce its commitment to safeguarding consumer rights and promoting consumer welfare.
