Test: Consumer Rights - 2 - UPSC MCQ

Consumer courts are special courts for consumers who buy or avail services. Consumer courts works under/as per Consumer Protection Act 1986 (CPA 1986). Any customer who falls under definition of consumer under CPA 1986 can lodge his/her complaint in forums.

The basic objective of the Right to Information Act is to empower the citizens, promote transparency and accountability in the working of the Public Authorities, contain corruption, and make our democracy work for the people in real sense.

 Consumer Forums are special courts for consumers who buy or avail services. Consumer forums works under/as per Consumer Protection Act 1986 (CPA 1986). Any customer who falls under definition of consumer under CPA 1986 can lodge his/her complaint in forums.

ISO (International Organisation for Standardisation) is the organisation that sets standards of products at the international level.

There were many factors that gave birth to the consumer movement in India. It started as a social force with the need to protect the consumers against unfair and unethical trade practices being followed by many retailers and manufacturers. These included creating artificial shortages, hoarding cereals and other agricultural products, black marketing of goods and adulteration of cooking oils and food items. Till 1986, consumer organizations were highlighting issues by writing articles in newspapers and magazines about these bad practices of merchants.

Adulteration is a scientific term which means to decrease the quality of a substance by adding another one in it. Adulteration is a legal term meaning that a food product fails to meet the legal standards.

The Consumer Protection Act:
The Consumer Protection Act is the act that was enacted to protect the consumers. Here is a detailed explanation of the act:

• Objective: The Consumer Protection Act aims to protect the rights of consumers and provide them with a mechanism for redressal in case of any unfair trade practices or exploitation.



• Key Provisions: The act provides various provisions to safeguard consumer interests, such as:
  
  
  
  • Establishment of Consumer Protection Councils at national, state, and district levels to promote and protect the rights of consumers.
  
  
  • Establishment of Consumer Dispute Redressal Commissions at district, state, and national levels to provide speedy and efficient resolution of consumer disputes.
  
  
  • Prohibition of unfair trade practices, deceptive advertisements, and misleading representations by businesses.
  
  
  • Right to seek compensation for any loss or injury caused due to defective goods or deficient services.
  
  
  • Provisions for product liability and the right to file class action suits.
  
  
  • Establishment of Consumer Protection Councils at national, state, and district levels to promote and protect the rights of consumers.
  
  
  
  



• Consumer Rights: The act recognizes and protects certain rights of consumers, including:
  
  
  
  • Right to safety: Consumers have the right to be protected against goods or services that are hazardous to life and property.
  
  
  • Right to information: Consumers have the right to be informed about the quality, quantity, price, and other relevant aspects of goods or services.
  
  
  • Right to choose: Consumers have the right to choose from a variety of goods or services at competitive prices.
  
  
  • Right to be heard: Consumers have the right to be heard and have their grievances addressed.
  
  
  • Right to seek redressal: Consumers have the right to seek redressal against unfair trade practices or exploitation.
  
  
  
  



• Consumer Disputes Redressal: The act provides for a three-tier redressal system for consumer disputes:
  
  
  
  • District Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission: Deals with claims up to Rs. 20 lakh.
  
  
  • State Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission: Deals with claims between Rs. 20 lakh and Rs. 1 crore.
  
  
  • National Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission: Deals with claims above Rs. 1 crore.
  
  
  
  



• Consumer Awareness and Education: The act emphasizes the importance of consumer awareness and education by promoting consumer organizations, conducting awareness programs, and encouraging research and publication on consumer-related issues.



• Penalties and Remedies: The act provides for penalties and remedies in case of violations, including compensation, refund, replacement, discontinuation of unfair trade practices, and imprisonment in some cases.

Overall, the Consumer Protection Act plays a crucial role in safeguarding consumer rights and ensuring their protection against unfair

Court to approach for a claim of Rs. 40 lakhs:
To address a claim of Rs. 40 lakhs, a consumer can approach the following court:
State Consumer Court
Explanation:
- The State Consumer Court, also known as the State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, is the appropriate court for consumers to approach for claims exceeding Rs. 20 lakhs but not exceeding Rs. 1 crore.
- The State Consumer Court is established at the state level, with each state having its own commission.
- It is a quasi-judicial body that provides a forum for consumers to seek redressal for their grievances against defective goods, deficient services, unfair trade practices, and more.
- The State Consumer Court has jurisdiction over cases within the state and has the power to hear and decide consumer disputes.
- It is a higher authority than the District Consumer Court, which handles claims up to Rs. 20 lakhs.
- The State Consumer Court has the authority to pass appropriate orders, including compensation, refund, and replacement, in favor of the consumer.
- Consumers can file their complaints directly with the State Consumer Court or through an advocate.
- It is important to note that the jurisdiction and monetary limit may vary from state to state, so it is advisable to consult the respective state's consumer protection laws and regulations for specific details.
Therefore, the correct option is B: State Consumer Court.

Some factors are:
Lack of awareness of consumer rights among buyers.
Improper and inadequate monitoring of rules and regulations.
Individual prchase quantity is quite small.
Consumers are scattered over large areas.
Lack of awareness among consumers.
Greed of businessperson.

ISO Certification Establishment
The ISO (International Organization for Standardization) certification was established in 1947.
Explanation:
ISO certification is a globally recognized standard that ensures quality management systems meet certain requirements. Here is a detailed explanation of the establishment of ISO certification:
1. ISO Formation:
ISO was formed in 1947 as a non-governmental organization with the aim of promoting international standardization.
2. First Standard:
The first ISO standard, ISO/R 1:1951, was published in 1951. It provided guidelines for international standardization and served as a foundation for future ISO standards.
3. ISO 9000 Series:
In 1987, ISO introduced the ISO 9000 series, which focused on quality management systems. This series became the most widely adopted standard globally and set the framework for ISO certification.
4. ISO Certification:
ISO certification is the process by which an organization's management system is evaluated against ISO standards by an accredited certification body. This certification provides assurance to customers and stakeholders that the organization meets the required standards for quality management.
5. Scope of ISO Certification:
ISO certification covers various aspects of an organization's operations, including quality management, environmental management, information security management, and occupational health and safety management, among others.
6. Benefits of ISO Certification:
- Enhanced credibility and reputation for the certified organization
- Increased customer confidence and satisfaction
- Improved efficiency and operational performance
- Compliance with legal and regulatory requirements
- Access to new markets and business opportunities
Conclusion:
ISO certification was established in 1947 and has since become a widely recognized standard for quality management systems. It provides organizations with a framework for ensuring their operations meet international standards and brings numerous benefits to certified organizations.

Right to Seek Redressal
Under the right to seek redressal, consumers have the right to claim compensation for any damage caused by a product. This right ensures that consumers have the means to address any grievances and seek appropriate remedies for any harm caused.
Here are the key points related to the right to seek redressal:
1. Definition: The right to seek redressal is a fundamental consumer right that allows consumers to seek compensation for any damage or loss caused by a product.
2. Legal recourse: Consumers can approach consumer courts or other relevant authorities to file a complaint and seek redressal for the damage caused by a product.
3. Compensation: Consumers have the right to claim compensation for any physical, financial, or emotional harm suffered due to a defective product.
4. Product liability: The right to seek redressal holds manufacturers, sellers, and service providers accountable for any harm caused by their products.
5. Consumer protection agencies: Consumer protection agencies play a crucial role in facilitating the right to seek redressal by providing guidance, support, and dispute resolution services to consumers.
6. Documentation: It is important for consumers to maintain proper documentation of the damage caused, including proof of purchase, receipts, photographs, and any other relevant evidence to strengthen their case for seeking redressal.
In conclusion, the right to seek redressal empowers consumers to claim compensation for the damage caused by a product. It ensures that consumers are protected and have the means to address any grievances arising from their consumer experiences.

AGMARK is a certification mark employed on agricultural products in India, assuring that they conform to a set of standards approved by the Directorate of Marketing and Inspection, an agency of the Government of India.

The Hallmark Certification for Standardization of Jewellery

The correct answer is C: Hallmark.

Explanation:

The Hallmark certification is maintained for the standardization of jewellery.

What is Hallmark certification?

• Hallmark is a certification that ensures the purity and quality of precious metal jewellery.


• It is a quality assurance mark provided by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).


• The hallmark consists of the BIS logo, purity grade, and jeweler's identification mark, ensuring the authenticity of the jewellery.

Why is Hallmark certification important?

• It provides assurance to the customers about the purity and quality of the jewellery they are purchasing.


• It helps in preventing the sale of counterfeit or low-quality jewellery in the market.


• It ensures that the jewellery meets the standards set by the Bureau of Indian Standards.

Benefits of Hallmark certification:

• Authenticity: Hallmark certification assures customers that the jewellery is made of genuine precious metals.


• Purity: It guarantees the purity of the metal used in the jewellery.


• Quality: Hallmarked jewellery undergoes strict quality checks, ensuring high-quality craftsmanship.


• Value for money: Customers can trust the authenticity and quality of hallmarked jewellery, providing them value for their investment.


• Consumer protection: Hallmark certification protects consumers from purchasing fake or low-quality jewellery.

In conclusion, the Hallmark certification is maintained for the standardization of jewellery. It ensures the purity, quality, and authenticity of precious metal jewellery, providing customers with confidence and value for their purchase.

The Act under which consumer courts have been established is the Consumer Protection Act.
The Consumer Protection Act is a legislation enacted by the Government of India in 1986 to protect the rights and interests of consumers. Under this act, consumer courts have been established at various levels to provide a forum for consumers to seek redressal for their grievances against unfair trade practices, defective products, and deficient services.
The consumer courts are known as Consumer Dispute Redressal Forums and they operate at three levels:
1. District Consumer Dispute Redressal Forum: This is the lowest level of consumer court and it is established in each district. It handles complaints involving amounts up to Rs. 20 lakh.
2. State Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission: This is the second level of consumer court and it is established in each state. It handles complaints involving amounts between Rs. 20 lakh and Rs. 1 crore.
3. National Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission: This is the highest level of consumer court and it is established at the national level. It handles complaints involving amounts exceeding Rs. 1 crore.
These consumer courts have the power to hear complaints, issue orders for compensation, and take necessary actions to protect the rights of consumers. They provide a quick and cost-effective means for consumers to seek justice and hold businesses accountable for their actions.
In conclusion, the Consumer Protection Act is the act under which consumer courts have been established in India. These consumer courts provide a platform for consumers to seek redressal for their grievances and ensure that their rights are protected.

Consumers need the following to protect themselves:

• Consumer Awareness: It is important for consumers to be aware of their rights and responsibilities, as well as the potential risks associated with various products and services. This includes being informed about their legal rights, reading and understanding product labels, and staying updated on consumer protection laws.


• Consumer Forums: These are platforms where consumers can file complaints and seek redressal for any grievances they may have against a company or service provider. Consumer forums play a crucial role in resolving disputes and ensuring that consumers are treated fairly.


• Consumer Protection Councils: These are government bodies or organizations that work towards protecting the interests of consumers. They formulate and enforce consumer protection policies, conduct investigations, and take legal action against companies that engage in unfair or deceptive practices.


• Consumer Movement: The consumer movement refers to the collective efforts of consumers to advocate for their rights and promote fair practices in the marketplace. Consumer movements help raise awareness, influence policy changes, and hold companies accountable for their actions.

By actively participating in consumer awareness programs, utilizing consumer forums, supporting consumer protection councils, and being a part of the consumer movement, consumers can empower themselves and ensure their rights are protected.

AGMARK stands for Agriculture Mark. AGMARK sign is issued and certified by govt. of India directorate of marketing and inspection. It is used to certify the authentic standards for agricultural products.

The logo of ISI, Agmark and Hallmark on a product certified its:
The logo of ISI, Agmark, and Hallmark on a product certifies its quality standards. Here's a detailed explanation:
1. Quality Standards:
- ISI: The ISI mark is a certification mark for industrial products in India, indicating that the product conforms to the Indian Standards set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). It ensures that the product meets the specified quality, safety, and performance requirements.
- Agmark: The Agmark is a certification mark in India for agricultural products, especially food items like grains, spices, edible oils, etc. It ensures that the product adheres to the quality standards specified by the Agricultural Produce Grading and Marketing Committee (APGMC).
- Hallmark: The Hallmark is a certification mark for precious metal articles like gold and silver jewelry. It guarantees the purity of the metal, indicating the percentage of precious metal content in the product.
2. Ingredients of the Product:
- The logo of ISI, Agmark, and Hallmark does not certify the specific ingredients of the product. It primarily focuses on quality standards and purity of the product.
3. Expiry Date of the Product:
- The logo of ISI, Agmark, and Hallmark does not certify the expiry date of the product. The expiry date is usually mentioned separately on the packaging or labeling of the product.
4. None of These:
- The correct answer is not "none of these." The logo of ISI, Agmark, and Hallmark certifies the quality standards of the product.
In conclusion, the presence of the ISI, Agmark, and Hallmark logos on a product signifies that it has met the specified quality standards set by the respective certification authorities. These logos do not certify the ingredients or expiry date of the product.

Answer:
National Consumers Day falls on 24 December.
Explanation:
National Consumers Day is observed in many countries to promote consumer rights and raise awareness about the importance of consumer protection. In India, National Consumers Day is celebrated on 24 December each year in memory of the enactment of the Consumer Protection Act, 1986.
Here is a detailed explanation of the options given:
A: 31 March
- This date is not the correct answer for National Consumers Day.
B: 23 August
- This date is not the correct answer for National Consumers Day.
C: 24 December
- This is the correct answer for National Consumers Day.
- It is celebrated on this day in India to commemorate the enactment of the Consumer Protection Act, 1986.
D: 25 January
- This date is not the correct answer for National Consumers Day.
In conclusion, National Consumers Day falls on 24 December.

Consumers International was created by UN.

• Consumers International is an organization that represents and advocates for the rights of consumers globally.


• The organization was created in 1960 by a resolution of the United Nations.


• UN recognized the need for an international body to address consumer issues and protect consumer rights.


• Consumers International works towards promoting consumer protection, ensuring fair trade practices, and improving product safety and quality.


• The organization provides a platform for consumer organizations from different countries to collaborate and share best practices.


• Consumers International also conducts research, campaigns, and advocacy to raise awareness about consumer issues and influence policy-making at national and international levels.


• Through its work, Consumers International aims to empower consumers, promote sustainable consumption, and ensure that consumer rights are respected and upheld.


• UN's support and recognition of Consumers International's role in advocating for consumer rights highlight the importance of protecting and empowering consumers in today's global market.

In order to protect the consumers from exploitation and to save them from adulterated and substandard goods and deficient services the Consumer Protection Act came into force on 15th April, 1986 and it applies to the whole of India except the State of Jammu and Kashmir.