Question

Short note on growth of consumer movement in India

Answer 1

Dear student,

​​​​​​At the world level, the origin of the consumer movement was in the form of consumer cooperatives. The first cooperative came in 1904 in Madras but there was not much development till 1962. The objectives of consumer movement were different in India from those of western countries. The objectives of the Indian consumer movement in 1970 were

1. Shortage of consumer products
2. Adulteration and black marketing.
3. Range of product is less due to lack of technological advancement.
4. The main focus was on availability, price, and purity.

But in recent year there has been change in the objectives and factors, such as

1. Increasing consumer awareness.
2. Increasing the quality of goods.
3. Enhancing consumer expectations by educating them about their rights.
4. Organised efforts through consumer societies.

Now consumer grievances cell has been opened for the protection of consumer interest. Consumers are representatives on a number of consumer welfare committees. These cells are active in the urban area but most of the rural areas are still untouched. So there is a need to open up more cells so that everyone can come under one umbrella.

Regards,