Consumer Rights: 10th CBSE Economics

Question: By what means can the consumers express their solidarity?

Answer: Consumers can express their solidarity by forming consumer groups that write articles or hold exhibitions against traders’ exploitation. These groups guide individuals on how to approach a consumer court, and they even fight cases for consumers. Such groups receive financial aid from the government to create public awareness. Participation of one and all will further strengthen consumer solidarity.

Question: Critically examine the progress of consumer movement in India?

Answer: The consumer movement in India has evolved vastly since it began. There has been a significant change in consumer awareness in the country. Till the enactment of COPRA in 1986, the consumer movement did not bear much force, but ever since its inception, the movement has been empowered substantially. The setting up of consumer courts and consumer groups has been a progressive move. However, in contemporary India, the consumer redressal process is quite complicated, expensive and time-consuming. Filing cases, attending court proceedings, hiring lawyers, and other procedures make it cumbersome. In India, there are over 700 consumer groups of which, unfortunately, only about 20-25 are well-organised and functioning smoothly.

Question: Say True or False.
(1) COPRA applies only to goods.
(2) India is one of the many countries in the world which has exclusive courts for consumer redressal.
(3) When a consumer feels that he has been exploited, he must file a case in the District Consumer Court.
(4) It is worthwhile to move to consumer courts only if the damages incurred are of high value.
(5) Hallmark is the certification maintained for standardization of jewelry.
(6) The consumer redressal process is very simple and quick.
(7) A consumer has the right to get compensation depending on the degree of the damage.

Answer:

1. False
2. True
3. True
4. True
5. True
6. False
7. True