Consumer Rights - Olympiad Level MCQ, Class 10 SST - Class 10 MCQ

India celebrates 24th December as National Consumers Day.

Explanation:

The correct answer is option A - National Consumers Day. Here's why:
1. Significance of 24th December:
- India celebrates National Consumers Day on 24th December every year.
- This day is observed to raise awareness about the rights and responsibilities of consumers.
- It aims to promote the importance of consumer protection and encourage consumers to make informed choices.
2. National Consumers Day:
- National Consumers Day in India is observed to commemorate the enactment of the Consumer Protection Act, 1986.
- The Consumer Protection Act was passed to protect the rights of consumers and establish mechanisms for their redressal.
- This act provides various rights to consumers, such as the right to safety, the right to be informed, the right to choose, and the right to be heard.
3. Activities on National Consumers Day:
- On National Consumers Day, various events and awareness campaigns are organized across the country.
- These activities aim to educate consumers about their rights, promote responsible consumption, and highlight the importance of fair trade practices.
- Workshops, seminars, exhibitions, and consumer awareness programs are conducted to empower consumers and address their grievances.
Therefore, India celebrates 24th December as National Consumers Day to promote consumer rights and ensure a fair and transparent marketplace.

Consumer Right to Seek Redressal

Explanation:

The consumer right that allows you to approach the consumer court in the given scenario is the "Right to Seek Redressal." Here's a detailed explanation:

• Consumer Rights: Consumer rights are a set of rules and regulations that protect consumers from unfair trade practices and ensure their welfare.


• Right to Seek Redressal: This right gives consumers the power to seek compensation or resolution for any grievances they have against a seller or service provider.


• Expired Medicine: If the chemist sold you a medicine that has passed its expiry date, it is considered a violation of your consumer rights.


• Approaching the Consumer Court: In this case, you have the right to approach the consumer court to seek redressal for the sale of the expired medicine.


• Consumer Court: The consumer court is a legal body specifically established to handle consumer complaints and provide appropriate remedies.


• Remedies: By approaching the consumer court, you can seek remedies such as compensation for any harm caused by the expired medicine, a refund for the purchase, or any other appropriate action against the chemist.

Therefore, in the given scenario, the consumer right that allows you to approach the consumer court is the "Right to Seek Redressal."

Explanation:

The right being violated by the shopkeeper is the Right to choose.

Reasoning:

The right to choose is one of the fundamental consumer rights, which gives individuals the freedom to select products or services based on their own preferences and needs. In this scenario, the shopkeeper is imposing a condition that the toothpaste can only be purchased if the customer also buys a toothbrush. This violates the right to choose as the customer is not given the option to purchase the toothpaste alone without any additional products. The shopkeeper is limiting the customer's freedom to make independent purchasing decisions.

By restricting the choice of the consumer, the shopkeeper is infringing upon their rights as a consumer and not allowing them to exercise their autonomy in making purchasing decisions. This violates the principle of consumer rights and undermines the basic idea of a free market where consumers have the right to choose the products they want without any undue influence or coercion.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option C: Right to choose.

Right of Consumers:

• Right to safety: Consumers have the right to be protected against goods and services that are hazardous to their health or life.


• Right to be informed: Consumers have the right to be provided with accurate and complete information about the products and services they purchase.


• Right to choose: Consumers have the right to choose from a variety of products and services at competitive prices.


• Right to constitutional remedies: This is not a right of consumers. The right to constitutional remedies refers to the right of every citizen to approach the court for the enforcement of their fundamental rights.

Answer: D. Right to constitutional remedies

Consumer International
- Consumer International is the correct answer to the given question.
- It is a global federation of consumer organizations that works towards promoting and protecting consumer rights.
- It serves as a platform for consumer organizations from different countries to collaborate and advocate for consumer rights at the international level.
- Consumer International provides resources, support, and training to its member organizations to empower them in their consumer advocacy work.
- It campaigns for issues such as product safety, fair trade, sustainable consumption, and access to essential services.
- Through its collective efforts, Consumer International aims to influence policies and practices that impact consumers globally.
COPRA (Consumer Protection Act)
- COPRA is not the correct answer to the given question.
- COPRA refers to the Consumer Protection Act, which is a legislation enacted by the government of India to protect the rights of consumers in the country.
- While COPRA is significant at the national level in India, it does not have a global reach or serve as the foundation for the consumer movement globally.
Consumer Forums
- Consumer Forums are not the correct answer to the given question.
- Consumer Forums, also known as Consumer Dispute Redressal Commissions, are quasi-judicial bodies established in India to resolve consumer disputes.
- These forums operate at the district, state, and national levels within India and provide a platform for consumers to seek redressal for grievances against sellers or service providers.
- While Consumer Forums are important for consumer protection within India, they do not have a global impact or serve as the foundation for the consumer movement worldwide.
None of the above
- This option is incorrect as Consumer International is the correct answer to the given question.
- Consumer International plays a crucial role in the global consumer movement and serves as the foundation for consumer advocacy at the international level.
- It brings together consumer organizations from different countries to collectively work towards protecting and promoting consumer rights globally.

Consumer Protection Councils: Functions and Non-Functions

Consumer Protection Councils play an important role in safeguarding the rights and interests of consumers. They aim to ensure fair trade practices and protect consumers from any form of exploitation or fraud. Here are the functions of Consumer Protection Councils:

1. Guiding Consumers: Consumer Protection Councils provide guidance to consumers on how to file cases and seek redressal for any grievances or issues they may have.


2. Representing Consumers: On many occasions, Consumer Protection Councils represent individual consumers in the consumers court, acting as their advocates and fighting for their rights.


3. Creating Awareness: Consumer Protection Councils work towards creating awareness among the people about their rights as consumers, educating them about various laws and regulations in place for their protection.


4. Financial Assistance: Consumer Protection Councils may provide financial assistance to consumers in certain cases, especially to those who cannot afford legal representation or other necessary expenses.

Therefore, the correct answer is D: They help the consumer financially. Consumer Protection Councils do not typically provide direct financial assistance to consumers, but they may offer guidance and support in accessing financial resources or seeking compensation through legal means.

The agency that develops standards for goods and services in India is the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
Explanation:
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the national standards body of India. It is responsible for the development, maintenance, and promotion of standards for goods, services, and systems in various sectors such as agriculture, food, consumer products, textiles, engineering, and more.
Key Points:
- The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) develops standards for goods and services in India.
- BIS is the national standards body of India.
- BIS is responsible for the development, maintenance, and promotion of standards in various sectors.
- It ensures the quality, safety, and reliability of products and services in the Indian market.
- BIS also provides certification and testing services to ensure compliance with the standards.
- It works in collaboration with industry, government, and other stakeholders to develop and update standards as per the evolving needs of the Indian economy.
Therefore, the correct answer is option D: Bureau of Indian Standards.

Answer:
The law enacted by the Government of India in the year 2005 is the Right to Information Act. The Right to Information Act was passed by the Parliament of India on 15 June 2005 and came into effect on 12 October 2005.
The Right to Information Act is an important legislation that provides citizens with the right to access information held by public authorities. It aims to promote transparency and accountability in the functioning of the government. Some key points about the Right to Information Act are:
- Enacted in: 2005
- Passed by: Parliament of India
- Effective from: 12 October 2005
- Purpose: To provide citizens with the right to access information held by public authorities
- Objective: To promote transparency and accountability in the functioning of the government
The Right to Information Act has played a significant role in empowering citizens and ensuring transparency in governance. It allows individuals to obtain information from public authorities, promotes citizen participation, and helps in preventing corruption.

Right to Information Act:
The Right to Information (RTI) Act is an important legislation that empowers the citizens of India to seek information from public authorities. It promotes transparency and accountability in the functioning of the government. The Act allows individuals to access government records and documents.
Passage of the Act:
The RTI Act was passed by the Indian Parliament to give effect to the right to information guaranteed under Article 19 of the Indian Constitution. The Act was enacted to provide a practical regime for citizens to access information held by public authorities.
Date of Passage:
The Right to Information Act was passed in the year 2005.
Options:
Among the given options, the correct answer is option C: In October 2005.
Conclusion:
The Right to Information Act was passed in October 2005 to empower citizens and promote transparency in the functioning of public authorities.

Violation of Right to Seek Redressal

Explanation:

When consumers are not allowed to get their claims settled against the manufacturers in case they are cheated or exploited, it violates their right to seek redressal. Here's a detailed explanation:

• Right to Seek Redressal: It is one of the basic rights of consumers which ensures that they have the right to get compensation or resolution for any unfair trade practices or exploitation they have faced.


• When consumers are not allowed to get their claims settled against the manufacturers, they are deprived of their right to seek redressal.


• This violation prevents consumers from obtaining justice and compensation for any harm or losses they have suffered due to the actions of the manufacturers.


• Without the ability to seek redressal, consumers are left vulnerable and helpless, unable to hold manufacturers accountable for their actions.


• By denying consumers the right to seek redressal, manufacturers can continue to engage in unfair trade practices and exploitation without facing any consequences.


• To protect the interests of consumers and ensure fair and ethical business practices, it is essential that consumers are allowed to get their claims settled against the manufacturers if they have been cheated or exploited.

Therefore, the right of consumers that is violated in this scenario is the Right to Seek Redressal.

Government of India's Enacted Law: Right to Information Act
The Government of India enacted a law in October 2005, known as the Right to Information Act. This act was a significant step towards promoting transparency and accountability in governance.
Key Points:
1. Objective: The Right to Information Act aims to empower citizens by providing them with the right to access information held by public authorities. It promotes transparency, accountability, and participation in the decision-making process.
2. Salient Features:
- Applicability: The act is applicable to all states and union territories of India, except Jammu and Kashmir.
- Public Authorities: It covers all public authorities, including government departments, public sector undertakings, and NGOs substantially financed by the government.
- Right to Information: It grants every citizen the right to seek information from public authorities.
- Obligations of Public Authorities: Public authorities are required to maintain records, publish certain information proactively, and provide information upon request.
- Timeframe: The act stipulates a maximum time limit of 30 days for providing information, with certain exceptions.
- Information Exemptions: Certain categories of information, such as national security, personal privacy, and commercial confidence, are exempted from disclosure.

3. Role of Central Information Commission (CIC): The Central Information Commission was established under the act to ensure the proper implementation of the right to information. It is responsible for hearing appeals and complaints regarding non-compliance with the act.
4. Benefits:
- Empowering Citizens: The act enables citizens to actively participate in governance and hold public authorities accountable.
- Curbing Corruption: By increasing transparency, the act helps in curbing corruption and promoting good governance.
- Strengthening Democracy: It strengthens the democratic fabric of the country by promoting citizen engagement and informed decision-making.
In conclusion, the Government of India enacted the Right to Information Act in October 2005 to promote transparency, accountability, and citizen empowerment. This act has played a crucial role in ensuring access to information and fostering a more transparent and accountable governance system in India.

Quality Certification obtained by food processing companies:

• Agmark: Agmark is a quality certification obtained by agricultural products in India to ensure their quality and conformity to certain standards. However, it is not specific to food processing companies.


• ISI: ISI (Indian Standards Institute) certification is obtained by various products to ensure their quality, safety, and reliability. Although it is important for food processing companies to follow ISI standards, it is not a specific certification for them.


• ISO: ISO (International Organization for Standardization) certification is widely recognized and obtained by food processing companies to demonstrate that they meet international standards for food safety, quality management, and environmental management. It provides assurance to consumers and stakeholders that the company follows best practices in the food processing industry.


• Hallmark: Hallmark certification is obtained by jewelry and precious metal products to ensure their purity and authenticity. It is not relevant to food processing companies.

Therefore, the correct answer is ISO, as it is the quality certification obtained by food processing companies to ensure their compliance with international standards.

Date of National Consumers' Day

The National Consumers' Day is celebrated on:

• Option A: 24 October


• Option B: 14 October


• Option C: 24 December


• Option D: 14 December

Answer: The correct date to celebrate National Consumers' Day is 24 December.

Detailed Solution

National Consumers' Day is observed in many countries around the world to raise awareness about consumer rights and encourage the protection of consumers from unethical practices. In India, this day is celebrated on 24th December every year.

The significance of National Consumers' Day is to highlight the importance of consumer protection, educate consumers about their rights, and promote fair trade practices. It serves as a reminder for businesses and organizations to prioritize consumer satisfaction and address any grievances promptly.

On this day, various events and activities are organized to promote consumer awareness and empowerment. These may include seminars, workshops, public campaigns, and consumer rights awareness programs. The aim is to ensure that consumers are well-informed, empowered, and protected in their interactions with businesses and service providers.

By observing National Consumers' Day, individuals and organizations can contribute to a fair and transparent marketplace where consumers' rights are respected and upheld. It serves as a reminder for businesses and authorities to enforce consumer protection laws and regulations for the benefit of the general public.

Protected Individuals in the Market Place

The individuals who are protected through rules and regulations in the market place are:

• The Consumers: Consumers are protected through various rules and regulations that ensure their rights and safety in the marketplace. These protections include:




• Consumer protection laws that safeguard against unfair practices, false advertising, and product defects.


• Product safety regulations that require manufacturers to meet certain standards and ensure the safety of their products.


• Consumer rights to receive fair treatment, accurate information, and the ability to seek redress in case of any harm or dissatisfaction.




• The Shopkeepers: Shopkeepers also benefit from certain rules and regulations that protect their interests and ensure fair competition in the market. These protections include:




• Anti-competitive practices regulations that prevent monopolies and promote a level playing field for all businesses.


• Consumer protection laws that protect shopkeepers from fraudulent or unfair practices by suppliers or manufacturers.


• Contractual agreements and dispute resolution mechanisms that provide legal protection to shopkeepers in their dealings with suppliers and customers.




• The Suppliers: Suppliers, including manufacturers and distributors, also receive protection through rules and regulations in the market place. These protections include:




• Contractual agreements and legal frameworks that ensure fair and transparent business transactions between suppliers and their customers.


• Intellectual property rights that protect the innovations and creations of suppliers from unauthorized use or reproduction.


• Consumer protection laws that safeguard suppliers from fraudulent or unfair practices by customers or competitors.

Overall, rules and regulations in the market place aim to create a fair and balanced environment for all stakeholders, including consumers, shopkeepers, and suppliers. These protections help maintain trust, promote healthy competition, and ensure the welfare of individuals participating in the market.

Explanation:

The Right to Safety is a fundamental right that ensures individuals are protected from harm and danger. It encompasses various aspects of safety, including protection against unsafe appliances, working conditions, and hazardous services. However, one of the options listed is not true regarding the Right to Safety:

Option C: Right to seek information about functioning of government departments.

This option is not related to the Right to Safety. The Right to Information (RTI) is a separate fundamental right that allows individuals to seek information about the functioning of government departments. It ensures transparency and accountability in the government's actions. While the RTI is an important right, it is distinct from the Right to Safety.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option C: Right to seek information about functioning of government departments.

Consumer Movement in India:
The consumer movement in India has gained significant momentum and has led to the formation of various organizations that work towards protecting the rights and interests of consumers. These organizations include:
1. Consumer Protection Councils:
- These are local organizations that aim to promote and protect consumer rights.
- They work towards creating awareness among consumers about their rights and responsibilities.
- Consumer Protection Councils also play a vital role in resolving consumer grievances and ensuring fair trade practices.
2. COPRA (Consumer Protection Act):
- COPRA stands for the Consumer Protection Act, which was enacted in 1986.
- This act provides a legal framework for the protection of consumer rights in India.
- It establishes consumer forums at the district, state, and national levels to address consumer complaints and grievances.
3. Resident Welfare Associations (RWA):
- RWAs are local associations formed by residents of a particular locality or housing society.
- While their main focus is on the welfare and development of the locality, they also address consumer-related issues.
- RWAs often work in collaboration with other consumer organizations to safeguard the interests of consumers.
4. None of them:
- This option implies that there are no organizations formed as a result of the consumer movement in India, which is incorrect.
Conclusion:
The consumer movement in India has led to the establishment of various organizations such as Consumer Protection Councils, COPRA, and Resident Welfare Associations. These organizations play a crucial role in protecting consumer rights, resolving grievances, and promoting fair trade practices.

Public Services
Public services refer to services that are provided by the government or public sector to the general public. These services are usually funded through taxes or other government revenues and are aimed at promoting the welfare and well-being of the citizens.
Examples of Public Services
- Postal services: Postal services are one of the essential public services provided by the government. They involve the collection, sorting, and delivery of mail and packages to individuals and businesses.
- Healthcare services: Healthcare services, including hospitals, clinics, and public health programs, are provided by the government to ensure access to quality healthcare for all citizens.
- Educational services: Public schools, colleges, and universities are examples of public services that aim to provide education to the general public.
- Transportation services: Public transportation systems, such as buses, trains, and subways, are provided by the government to facilitate the movement of people within a city or region.
- Emergency services: Police, fire, and ambulance services are examples of emergency services provided by the government to ensure public safety and respond to emergencies.
- Social welfare services: Social welfare programs, such as unemployment benefits, welfare assistance, and food stamps, are provided by the government to support individuals and families in need.
- Environmental services: Public services also include environmental protection and conservation measures, such as waste management, water treatment, and air quality control.
Not Covered under Public Services
- Mobile repair services: Mobile repair services are typically provided by private businesses and are not considered public services.
- Washing machine after-sale services: After-sale services for washing machines, including repairs and maintenance, are typically provided by the manufacturer or authorized service centers and are not considered public services.
In conclusion, postal services are covered under public services, while mobile repair services and washing machine after-sale services are not. Public services are essential for the functioning of a society and aim to meet the needs of the general public in areas such as communication, healthcare, education, transportation, emergency response, social welfare, and environmental protection.

Under the RTI (Right to Information) Act, if information is not provided or denied, there are certain actions that can be taken:
1. Appeal to the Appellate Authority:
- The first step is to file an appeal to the Appellate Authority, which is the next higher authority in the hierarchy.
- The appeal should be filed within 30 days from the date of receipt of the response or the date on which the response was expected.
- The Appellate Authority will review the case and provide a decision within a specified time period.
2. Follow the appellate process:
- If the response from the Appellate Authority is also unsatisfactory or if there is no response within the stipulated time, one can further appeal to the State/Central Information Commission.
- The appeal should be filed within 90 days from the date of receipt of the Appellate Authority's decision or from the date on which the decision was expected.
- The State/Central Information Commission will conduct a hearing and provide a final decision on the matter.
3. Seek legal recourse:
- If the State/Central Information Commission's decision is not favorable or if there is no response within the stipulated time, one can approach the High Court or Supreme Court, depending on the jurisdiction.
- Legal proceedings can be initiated to seek the required information and challenge any violations of the RTI Act.
It is important to note that the RTI Act provides a mechanism for citizens to access information held by public authorities. However, the process may vary slightly depending on the jurisdiction and specific circumstances of each case.

Who can seek information under the RTI Act, 2005?
Under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005, the following individuals and entities can seek information:
An individual citizen
- Any citizen of India, including minors, can seek information under the RTI Act.
- The Act ensures that citizens have the right to access information held by public authorities and government departments.
A group of persons
- A group of persons, or a collective of individuals, can also seek information under the RTI Act.
- This includes organizations, associations, or communities that have a common interest in accessing information.
An association / society
- Associations or societies registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860 can seek information under the RTI Act.
- These organizations must be involved in activities related to public welfare, development, or any other similar purpose.
A registered company
- A registered company can seek information under the RTI Act if it falls under the definition of a public authority.
- A public authority is defined as any body or institution established or constituted by or under the Constitution of India, or by any other law made by Parliament or a state legislature.
In summary, individuals, groups of persons, registered companies, and associations/societies can seek information under the RTI Act, 2005. The Act ensures transparency and accountability in governance by providing citizens with the right to access information held by public authorities.

Consumer Protection Act, 1986: Unfair Trade Practices
The Consumer Protection Act, 1986 aims to protect the rights and interests of consumers in India. It prohibits unfair trade practices that may deceive, mislead, or exploit consumers. However, there are certain activities that are not considered unfair trade practices under this act. Let's explore them in detail:
1. False or misleading representations: This refers to any form of false or deceptive information provided by a seller or service provider about their product or service. It includes false advertising, misleading claims, or misrepresentation of facts.
2. Bargain price: Bargain price refers to the sale of goods or services at a significantly reduced price compared to the market value. However, this provision does not apply to goods or services that are offered at a bargain price due to special circumstances, such as clearance sales or discontinuation of the product.
3. Non-compliance of product safety standard: Non-compliance with product safety standards is considered an unfair trade practice. It means selling products that do not meet the required safety standards, posing a risk to the health and safety of consumers.
4. Offering discounts or rebates: Offering discounts or rebates is a common marketing strategy used by businesses to attract customers. However, if these discounts or rebates are falsely advertised or if the terms and conditions are misleading, it can be considered an unfair trade practice.
Conclusion:
According to the Consumer Protection Act, 1986, unfair trade practices involve false or misleading representations, non-compliance of product safety standards, and offering discounts or rebates. Bargain price, on the other hand, is not considered an unfair trade practice unless it is falsely advertised or misleading. It is important for consumers to be aware of their rights and report any unfair trade practices to the appropriate authorities for redressal.

Marketing of hazardous goods and services is covered under the right to be protected.

Explanation:

• Right to be protected: This right ensures that consumers are protected from hazardous goods and services that may pose a threat to their life and property. It is the responsibility of the government and regulatory bodies to ensure that such products are not marketed or sold to the public.


• Marketing of hazardous goods and services: Refers to the promotion and sale of products or services that have the potential to cause harm, either to the consumers or their property.


• Examples of hazardous goods and services: This includes products like defective electronic devices, contaminated food or drugs, unsafe vehicles, or services that involve high-risk activities without proper safety measures.


• Importance of the right to be protected: This right is crucial in maintaining the safety and well-being of consumers. It ensures that they have access to products and services that are safe and reliable, and have the necessary information to make informed choices.


• Role of regulatory bodies: Government agencies and regulatory bodies play a vital role in enforcing laws and regulations related to the marketing of hazardous goods and services. They conduct inspections, impose penalties, and take legal actions against businesses that violate consumer protection laws.

Therefore, the marketing of goods and services that are hazardous to life and property is covered under the right to be protected.

Consumer Protection Act, 1986 covers the whole of India except:
There are four options given: A, B, C, and D. The correct answer is A.
Explanation:
The Consumer Protection Act, 1986 is a legislation enacted by the Indian government to protect the rights and interests of consumers across the country. However, there are certain regions or territories where this act does not apply. Let's examine each option to determine the correct answer:
A: The state of Jammu and Kashmir:
- The Consumer Protection Act, 1986 does not apply to the state of Jammu and Kashmir.
- This is because Jammu and Kashmir has its own separate consumer protection laws and regulations.
B: Andaman and Nicobar Islands:
- The Consumer Protection Act, 1986 applies to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
- Therefore, option B is not the correct answer.
C: Lakshadweep:
- The Consumer Protection Act, 1986 applies to Lakshadweep.
- Therefore, option C is not the correct answer.
D: None of the above:
- This option is incorrect because the correct answer is option A, which is the state of Jammu and Kashmir.
Therefore, the correct answer is option A: the state of Jammu and Kashmir is the only region in India where the Consumer Protection Act, 1986 does not apply.

District level consumer courts can settle claims up to Rs 20 lakh.
Explanation:
District level consumer courts are established under the Consumer Protection Act, 1986, to provide a forum for consumers to seek redressal for their grievances against sellers or service providers. These courts have the authority to settle claims up to a certain monetary limit. In the case of district level consumer courts, the maximum claim amount that can be settled is Rs 20 lakh.
Here is a breakdown of the options given:
A: Rs 20 lakh
- This is the correct answer. District level consumer courts can settle claims up to Rs 20 lakh.
B: Rs 1 crore
- This option is incorrect. District level consumer courts cannot settle claims up to Rs 1 crore.
C: Rs 50 lakh
- This option is incorrect. District level consumer courts cannot settle claims up to Rs 50 lakh.
D: Rs 80 lakh
- This option is incorrect. District level consumer courts cannot settle claims up to Rs 80 lakh.
It is important for consumers to be aware of their rights and the jurisdiction of consumer courts to effectively seek redressal for their grievances. By approaching the appropriate consumer court, consumers can ensure that their claims are settled within the prescribed monetary limit.

Right to Information (RTI) Act in India
The Right to Information (RTI) Act is an important legislation that empowers citizens in India to access information from public authorities. It promotes transparency and accountability in the functioning of government bodies. The Act was enacted by the Government of India in October 2005.
Significance of the RTI Act:
- The RTI Act enables citizens to obtain information about the government's decision-making process, policies, and actions.
- It helps in exposing corruption and promoting good governance.
- The Act empowers individuals to seek redressal and take action against any wrongdoing by public authorities.
- It promotes transparency and accountability, thereby strengthening democracy in the country.
Key features of the RTI Act:
- The Act applies to all government bodies at the central, state, and local levels.
- It provides a mechanism for citizens to file applications for information and obtain responses within a stipulated time frame.
- The Act allows for the inspection of records, documents, and files maintained by public authorities.
- It imposes penalties on public officials who fail to provide information or provide false information.
- The Act establishes the Central Information Commission (CIC) and State Information Commissions (SICs) as appellate bodies to address grievances and ensure the effective implementation of the Act.
Impact of the RTI Act:
- The RTI Act has empowered citizens to actively participate in the governance process.
- It has exposed various cases of corruption and misuse of power.
- The Act has led to increased transparency and accountability in government processes.
- It has facilitated the dissemination of information and knowledge to the public.
In conclusion, the RTI Act in India was enacted in October 2005. It has played a crucial role in empowering citizens, promoting transparency, and ensuring accountability in the functioning of government bodies.

MRP on a product represents:
- Maximum Retail Price: MRP stands for Maximum Retail Price. It is the highest price at which a product can be sold to the end consumer as determined by the manufacturer.
Key points to note about MRP:
- Legal requirement: In many countries, including India, it is a legal requirement for products to display the MRP on their packaging.
- Consumer protection: MRP ensures that consumers are not overcharged for products and provides a benchmark price for comparison while making purchasing decisions.
- Set by the manufacturer: The manufacturer determines the MRP based on various factors such as production cost, packaging, transportation, taxes, and desired profit margin.
- Not mandatory selling price: Retailers have the flexibility to sell products below the MRP, but they cannot exceed it.
- Price negotiations: MRP helps in avoiding price negotiations between retailers and consumers by providing a standardized price for the product.
- Transparency: MRP promotes transparency in pricing by clearly indicating the maximum price at which a product can be sold.
Therefore, the correct answer is B: Maximum Retail Price.