In an effort to protect consumers from misleading advertisements and fake products, the Department of Consumer Affairs is planning to sign an agreement with industry associations to implement a self-regulated code for fair business practices.
This will be part of the celebrations of World Consumer Rights Day on Tuesday.
“The MoU will broadly cover the collaborative programmes on developing and implementing a self-regulated code of fair business practices, establishing a Consumer Affairs division/vertical within the Industry Body, initiating advocacy action against unfair trade practices and preventing fake, counterfeit and sub-standard products and services and adoption of voluntary standards by industry members,” an official statement said.
The agreement will include earmarking of CSR funds for consumer awareness and protection activities, partnering with the National Consumer Helpline and State Consumer Helplines for grievance redressal, as well as launching joint consumer awareness, education and training programmes.
Implementation of the agenda will be monitored by a joint working group.
The Consumer Affairs Ministry and industry associations such as Assocham, CII, DICCI, FICCI and PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry have also formed partnerships on consumer advocacy.