The process of development coupled with increasing liberalization and globalisation across the country has enabled consumers to realize their increasingly important role in society and governance. The consumer movement in India is as old as trade and commerce. In Kautilya’s Arthashastra, there are references to the concept of consumer protection against exploitation by the trade and industry, short weighment and measures, adulteration, and punishment for these offences. In a developing country like high and the level of literacy is very low, the people face a volume of problems, particularly in the context of consumer related issues. This book brings into focus the role and status of Indian consumers and their problems arising from the given socio-economic set up of our society. A critical appraisal of government policies and programs has also been attempted. Ensuring consumer welfare is the responsibility of the state. Accepting this, policies have been framed and the Consumer Protection Act, 1986 was introduced. A separate Department of Consumer Affairs was also created in the Central and State Governments to exclusively focus on ensuring the rights of consumers as enshrined in the Act. This Act has been regarded as the most progressive, comprehensive and unique piece of legislation. The present book provides a detailed and comprehensive study of the recent developments in the Indian consumer protection law, besides examining the provisions of various other statues dealing with consumer protection. It also provides further insight into consumer behaviour to help marketers develop an appropriate marketing strategy. The book constitutes a rich contribution to an issue of considerable importance. It is expected to be highly useful to policy planners, economists, researchers, NGOs and students.
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