Every year, March 15th is observed as World Consumer Rights Day to raise awareness about consumer rights and protection. The day highlights the importance of consumer rights in both the physical and digital worlds. The idea for this day was inspired by a speech given by U.S. President John F. Kennedy in 1962, where he outlined essential consumer rights. Since then, this day has been dedicated to ensuring that consumers are aware of their rights and can make informed choices about the products and services they use.

World Consumer Rights Day Overview

World Consumer Rights Day is a global event celebrated every year on March 15 to emphasize consumer rights and the need for fair trade practices. Consumer rights refer to the right of every individual to receive safe, high-quality products and services. This day serves as a platform for discussions on policies that protect consumers from unfair trade practices.

World Consumer Rights Day 2025 Theme

The theme for World Consumer Rights Day 2025 is “A Just Transition to a Sustainable Future.“ This theme focuses on the importance of making sustainable and healthy lifestyle choices accessible and affordable for all consumers. Sustainability is a key factor in tackling global issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. These issues affect not only the environment but also the economy and social well-being of communities worldwide.

History of World Consumer Rights Day

The purpose of World Consumer Rights Day is to ensure that consumers have all the necessary information to make informed decisions about the products and services they use. The day was first observed in 1983 and is organized by Consumers International, a global federation of consumer organizations founded in 1960.

The significance of March 15 dates back to 1962, when U.S. President John F. Kennedy addressed the U.S. Congress and introduced the four fundamental consumer rights:

• The Right to Safety: Consumers should be protected from hazardous products and services.
• The Right to Be Informed: Consumers should have access to accurate information about products and services.
• The Right to Choose: Consumers should have a variety of options to choose from.
• The Right to Be Heard: Consumer interests should be represented in policy decisions.

Consumer Rights in India

Consumer rights refer to the legal and ethical entitlements that protect consumers from unfair trade practices, ensuring they receive accurate information about products and services, have access to quality goods, and can seek redressal in case of grievances. These rights empower consumers to make informed choices, ensure fair pricing, and promote a transparent and safe marketplace.

In India, consumer rights are protected under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. The fundamental consumer rights include:

• • Right to Safety: Consumers have the right to use products that meet safety standards. The certification marks for product quality in India include:

• ISI Mark (for industrial and electrical products)

• AGMARK (for agricultural products)

• FPO Mark (for processed food items)

• Right to Be Informed: Consumers must be provided with complete information about products, including their ingredients, price, and potential risks.
• Right to Choose: Consumers have the right to select from a variety of goods and services at competitive prices.
• Right to Be Heard: Consumer complaints must be addressed through appropriate channels.
• Right to Seek Redressal: If a consumer is cheated or harmed, they have the right to seek compensation or corrective action.
• Right to Consumer Education: Consumers should be educated about their rights and responsibilities.

Consumer Protection Act, 2019

The Consumer Protection Act, 2019 replaced the Consumer Protection Act, 1986 to provide stronger protections for consumers, particularly in online transactions. Some key features of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 include:

• Inclusion of E-commerce Consumers: The act defines consumers as those who buy goods or services online, ensuring their rights are protected.
• Definition of Advertisements: The act includes audio, visual, and online advertisements to prevent misleading claims.
• Introduction of Product Liability: Manufacturers and sellers can now be held accountable for defective products.
• Unfair Contracts Provision: Contracts that exploit consumers can be challenged.
• Regulations for Direct Selling and E-commerce: Online platforms must follow ethical trade practices.
• Mediation Cells: The act mandates mediation cells at the District, State, and National levels to resolve consumer disputes quickly.
• Establishment of the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA): The CCPA was established to oversee consumer rights, prevent unfair trade practices, and address false advertisements.

World Consumer Rights Day plays a crucial role in educating people about their rights as consumers. Whether buying a product in a store or shopping online, consumers deserve access to safe, high-quality goods and services. The Consumer Protection Act, 2019, along with the CCPA, ensures that consumers in India are protected against unfair practices. By staying informed and exercising consumer rights, individuals can contribute to a fair and just marketplace for all.

World Consumer Rights Day FAQs