Piyush Goyal Launches Consumer Protection Initiatives on World Consumer Rights Day

GG News Bureau
Mumbai, 16th March. Union Minister for Commerce & Industry, Consumer Affairs and Food & Public Distribution, and Textiles, Piyush Goyal, inaugurated a slew of initiatives during the World Consumer Rights Day celebrations in Mumbai to fortify consumer rights and bolster their protection.

The event, themed “Fair and Responsible AI for Consumers,” underscored the pivotal role of technology in safeguarding consumer interests and promoting ethical practices in commerce and industry.

Key initiatives launched by Shri Piyush Goyal include:

1. Video Conferencing Facilities: The installation of video conferencing facilities in State Consumer Commission offices across several states, including Chandigarh, Punjab, Haryana, Maharashtra, and Delhi, aims to enhance accessibility and efficiency in consumer dispute redressal.

2. Dissemination of Indian Standard Time (IST) through NTP: The initiative enables mobile service providers to synchronize with Indian Standard Time, facilitating real-time applications in strategic sectors for national security.

3. Integrated Price Monitoring Dashboard: A state-of-the-art dashboard offering data visualization and analytics for monitoring retail and wholesale prices of essential food commodities across 34 states and union territories.

4. Launch of CCPA Website: A dedicated website for the Consumer Complaints Protection Authority (CCPA) streamlines the process of filing complaints on a class action basis, ensuring swift redressal of violations of consumer rights.

Additionally, Piyush Goyal unveiled two significant publications: “Consumer Protection and Legal Metrology in Ancient India: Ancient Thoughts and Wisdom” and “The Consumer Journey” Book 1 & 2 by Amar Chitra Katha. These publications aim to raise awareness about consumer rights and responsibilities among citizens, especially the youth.

Speaking at the event, Piyush Goyal emphasized the government’s commitment to prioritizing consumer welfare and prosperity. He highlighted the historic roots of consumer protection in India and stressed the need for fast-paced, action-oriented governance to address contemporary challenges effectively.

The Minister of State for Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution and Rural Development, Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti, emphasized the importance of timely disposal of consumer cases in light of evolving technological landscapes and emerging risks in e-commerce.

The event witnessed the participation of various dignitaries, including Secretary, Department of Consumer Affairs Rohit Kumar Singh, and representatives from consumer commissions, national law universities, industry associations, and consumer organizations.

The initiatives launched are poised to empower consumers, secure their interests, and usher in a new era of consumer prosperity in India.