Chapter 5 - Consumer Rights
The final chapter on economics will discuss consumer rights in the context of the Indian market. Vidyakul CBSE Notes on Consumer Rights Class 10 Economics Chapter 5 will help you understand that as a result of the consumer movement and those who have been actively involved in the struggle for a long time, they have found themselves to be informed consumers. This chapter also provides information about several organizations that help consumers in different ways. Finally, we conclude with some important issues of the Indian consumer movement. Review these Vidyakul CBSE Class 10 Notes to get an idea of all topics in this chapter. You can also download this note in pdf format by clicking on the link below.
Consumers in the Market
We participate in the market as both producers and consumers.
As producers of goods and services, we can work in any sector: agriculture, industry, or services.
Consumers participate in the market when purchasing the goods and services they need. These are the final products that people use as consumers. Rules and regulations are necessary to protect consumers in the marketplace.
Consumer Movement
The consumer movement as a “social force” in India arose from the need to protect and promote consumer interests against unethical and unfair trade practices. As a result of all these efforts, in 1986 the Government of India made an important initiative. They enacted the Consumer Protection Act of 1986, commonly known as COPRA.
Safety is everyone's right.
Consumers have the right to be protected from the sale of goods and services that endanger life and property. Manufacturers must strictly adhere to essential safety rules and regulations.
Information about Goods and Services
When you buy any commodity, you will find certain details given on the packing such as
- Ingredients used
- Price
- Batch number
- Date of manufacture
- Expiry date
- The address of the manufacturer
This information has been displayed because consumers have the right to get information about the goods and services that they purchase. Consumers can then complain and ask for compensation or replacement if the product proves to be defective in any manner.
In October 2005, the Government of India enacted a law, popularly known as RTI (Right to Information) Act. This law ensures that its citizens get all the information about the functions of government departments.
When Choice is Denied
Any consumer who receives a service in whatever capacity, regardless of age, gender, and nature of service, has the right to choose whether to continue to receive the service or not.
Where do consumers go for justice?
Consumers have the right to seek compensation for unfair trade practices and exploitation. The consumer movement in India has led to the creation of various organizations known as Consumer Forums or Consumer Advocacy Councils. They help consumers sue in consumer courts.
COPRA, a three-tier quasi-judicial mechanism at the county, state, and national levels, was established to resolve consumer disputes.
- District Court convened a Provincial Forum hearing cases involving claims of up to Rs 20 lakh.
- The State Court convened a State Board hearing cases involving claims between Rs 20 lakh and Rs 1 crore.
- National Level Courts, known as National Commissions, hear cases involving claims exceeding Rs 1 crore. If the case is dismissed in a local court, the consumer may appeal to the state court and then to the national court.
Learning to be an Informed Consumer
The adoption of COPRA created separate consumer affairs departments in the national and state governments. Logos with ISI, Agmark, or Hallmark letters help consumers obtain quality assurance when purchasing products and services. Progress of the Consumer Movement
India is one of the countries with dedicated courts for consumer protection. December 24th is Consumer Day in India. After more than 25 years of COPRA, consumer awareness in Korea is slowly spreading. The rapid progress of the consumer movement requires voluntary efforts and people's active participation.
Frequently asked Questions on CBSE Class 10
What is a ‘Consumer organization’?
A consumer organization/association is a membership-based non-governmental non-profit body created to promote the interests of consumers of goods and services.
What are the basic rights of consumers?
1. Right to safety.
2. Right to choose.
3. Right to be informed.
4. Right to consumer education.
5. Right to be heard.
6. Right to Seek redressal.
7. Consumer Protection Act.
What does ‘ISI’ stand for?
The ISI mark is by far the most recognized certification mark in the Indian subcontinent. The name ISI is an abbreviation of Indian Standards Institute, the former name of the Bureau of Indian Standards.
