The Department of Consumer Affairs marked National Consumer Day 2023 in New Delhi, placing a significant focus on leveraging technology for consumer protection and grievance redressal. The Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, Textiles, and Commerce & Industry inaugurated the event, emphasizing the role of customer satisfaction as a crucial driver for the country’s development.
In his inaugural address, the Minister highlighted the importance of consumer care. He underscored that the progress of the nation is intricately linked to ensuring consumer satisfaction. The Minister applauded the recent initiatives of the Department, including the launch of the e-Jagriti portal, VC facility for NCDRC, drone testing in NTH, National Consumer Helpline 2.0 in 17 languages, and a 13-fold increase in calls.
The Minister also commended the release of the “Guidelines for Prevention and Regulation of Dark Patterns, 2023,” aiming to prevent manipulative practices and foster a fair and transparent marketplace.
Addressing the challenges arising from technological expansion the Minister emphasized the need for comprehensive stakeholder discussions on subjects like AI and consumer protection. He praised the department’s proactive initiatives, including the establishment of 140 new Price Monitoring Centres, successfully keeping food inflation in check.
As part of the celebrations, the Minister inaugurated several initiatives, including the e-JAGRITI portal for consumer commissions, VC Facility at NCDRC, Drone certification facility at NTH, new laboratories at National Test House, and an exchange of MoU between NTH and RRSL for mutual collaboration in EV testing.
Furthermore, the President of NCDRC stressed the importance of ‘Upbhokta Devo Bhava’ and highlighted the need for widespread consumer protection across the nation. He advocated for accessible e-filing of cases, ensuring even technologically challenged consumers can utilize it.
Union Minister of State praised the efforts of the Department for automating processes through technology and emphasized the importance of effective and timely disposal of cases for consumer rights protection.
The event featured a technical session on themes such as “Artificial Intelligence & the Protection of Consumer Rights,” “Role of Technology in Speedy Disposal of Consumer Cases,” and “Impact of Dark Patterns on Consumer Choices & Preferences.”
