In the contemporary world, consumers play a vital role in shaping the economy, society, and the environment. With the rapid rise of markets, technologies, and the global economy, understanding the rights and responsibilities of consumers has become more crucial than ever. Consumer RISE is a comprehensive exploration of consumerism and consumer protection, bringing together perspectives from experts across diverse fields to address the complexities and challenges faced by modern consumers.
This book provides a detailed account of the multifaceted world of consumerism, beginning with the foundational understanding of consumer rights and responsibilities, legal frameworks, and consumer protection agencies. It then examines the emerging concerns, such as the impact of consumer choices on society and the environment, as well as the role of digital technology and advertising in shaping consumer behaviour. Additionally, it offers an in-depth analysis of the growing importance of consumer education, financial literacy, and product safety in safeguarding the interests of individuals in an increasingly complex and digitalized marketplace.
The expert contributions in this book, authored by respected scholars and professionals, offer a wide-ranging view of the various issues impacting consumerism today. From legal frameworks and consumer activism to the ethics of advertising and the rise of artificial intelligence, Consumer RISE aims to equip readers with the knowledge needed to navigate the evolving landscape of consumer rights, responsibilities, and protections.
We hope that this book will not only serve as an academic resource but also act as a catalyst for increased consumer awareness, empowerment, and activism, leading to a more informed and equitable marketplace for all.
|
Chapter No. |
Details |
Page Nos. |
|
INTRODUCTION |
||
|
1. |
UNDERSTANDING CONSUMERISM AND CONSUMER PROTECTION Dr. Roopa Rao, Associate Professor, College of Home Science Nirmala Niketan (Affiliated to the University of Mumbai), 49, New Marine Lines, Mumbai, Maharashtra – 400020 1.1 Introduction to Consumerism 1.2 Consumer Movement and Consumerism in India 1.3 Role of Consumer Organizations in India 1.4 Consumer Protection in the Digital Age 1.5 The Future of Consumer Protection |
3-22 |
|
RIGHTS |
||
|
2. |
CONSUMER RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES Dr. Nidhi Gupta, I/C Head, S. M. Patel College of Home Science, Vallabh Vidyanagar, Gujarat. 2.1 Fundamental Consumer Rights 2.2 Consumer Responsibilities Towards Society and Environment 2.3 Consumer Awareness and Literacy Levels in India 2.4 Impact of Consumer Choices on Society and Environment |
24-36 |
|
3. |
CONSUMER PROTECTION ACT, 1986 TO 2019: MILESTONES AND MECHANISMS Dr. Anjali Juyal, College of Community & Applied Sciences, Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur, Rajasthan. 3.1 Introduction 3.2 Introduction to Consumer Protection Act, 1986: Objectives and Importance 3.3 Amendments to the Cpa 1986 3.4 Transition to Consumer Protection Act, 2019: Need for Reform 3.5 Empowering Consumers 3.6 Relevance of Central Consumer Protection Authority 3.7 Challenges and Future Prospects in Consumer Protection |
37-50 |
|
4. |
A UNIFIED APPROACH: LEGAL PROTECTIONS FOR CONSUMERS ACROSS SECTORS Dr. Suman Singh, ICAR Emeritus Professor, College of Community & Applied Sciences, Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture &Technology, Udaipur, Rajasthan. 4.1 Supplementary Consumer Laws in India 4.2 Challenges in Implementation |
51-73 |
|
5. |
CONSUMER PROTECTION AGENCIES Dr. Shirin Hima Bindu, Scientist, All India Coordinated Research Project on Women in Agriculture, PJTAU, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad. 5.1 Central and State Consumer Protection Councils 5.2 Consumer Forums and Commissions 5.3 Ombudsman and Redressal Mechanisms |
74-93 |
|
6. |
CONSUMER ACTIVISM AND EMPOWERMENT Dr. Hemu Rathore, Prof.& HOD, RMCS Deptt College of Community & Applied Sciences, Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture & Technology, Udaipur, Rajasthan. Dr. Charu Sharma, SMS, KVK, Jaisalmer, SKRAU, Bikaner 6.1 Consumer Empowerment 6.2 Consumer Activism 6.3 Consumer Policy and Advocacy |
94-106 |
|
INFORMATION |
||
|
7. |
UNDERSTANDING CONSUMER BEHAVIOUR Dr. Rekha Vyas, ICAR- Emeritus Professor, College of Community & Applied Sciences, MPUAT, Udaipur, Rajasthan. 7.1 Consumer Behaviour and Psychology 7.2 Consumer Economics and Sociology |
108-125 |
|
8. |
FINANCIAL LITERACY AND CONSUMERISM Dr. V. Prasuna, Assistant Professor, Dept. of Resource Management and Consumer Sciences, College of Community Science, ANGRAU, Guntur, AP 8.1 Financial Planning and Budgeting 8.2 Consumer Credit and Debt Management 8.3 Digital Payments and Financial Inclusion |
126-141 |
|
9. |
ADVERTISING AND MARKETING ETHICS Dr. Aditi Vats, Professor and HOD, Department of Resource Management and Consumer Science, College of Community Science, GBPUAT, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand Ms. Kirtika Sati, Phd. Scholar, Dept. of Resource Management and Consumer Science (College of Community Science) GB Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar-263145, Uttarakhand 9.1 Definition and Importance 9.2 The Role of Regulations 9.3 Impact of Digital Marketing on Ethics 9.4 Advertising Techniques and Consumer Psychology 9.5 Deceptive Advertising Practices 9.6 Ethical Advertising and Social Responsibility |
142-163 |
|
10. |
DATA PRIVACY AND SECURITY Dr. Urvashi Mishra, Assistant Professor, Department of Family & Community Resource Management, Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Gujarat Ms. Suraksha Narang, Assistant Professor, Department of Family & Community Resource Management, Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Gujarat 10.1 Introduction to Data Privacy and Security 10.2 Understanding Data Protection and Data Privacy Laws 10.3 Cybersecurity Threats and Consumer Awareness 10.4 Online Privacy Rights and Protection 10.5 Future of Data Privacy and Security |
164-179 |
|
SAFETY |
||
|
11. |
PRODUCT AND SERVICE SAFETY Dr. Jyotirmayee Udgata, Assoc. Professor and Head, Rama Devi Women's University, Odisha Ms. BR Abha Ayushree, Asst. Professor, Rama Devi Women's University, Odisha 11.1 Product Safety and Quality 11.2 Healthcare and Consumer Rights 11.3 Food Safety and Security 11.4 Housing and Consumer Protection
|
181-206 |
|
12. |
EMERGING SAFETY ISSUES Dr. Reema Chaurasia, Assistant Professor, Department of Resource Management & Design Application, Institute of Home Economics University of Delhi 12.1 Artificial Intelligence and Consumer Protection 12.2 Sharing Economy |
207-224 |
|
EDUCATION |
||
|
13. |
CONSUMER EDUCATION Dr. Sarjoo Patel, I/C Head, Faculty of Family & Community Sciences, Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Gujarat. Dr. Smita Chandra, Assistant Professor, SCSS Govt. P.G. College Kapkote, Bageshwar, Uttarakhand 13.1 Introduction 13.2 Importance of Consumer Education in Schools and Society 13.3 Creating Effective Teaching Materials and Learning Modules 13.4 Developing Consumer Literacy Programs |
226-239 |
|
14. |
ROLE OF CONSUMER ORGANIZATIONS Dr. V. Vijaya Lakshmi, Professor & Head, College of Community Science, PJTSAU, Saifabad, Hyderabad. Dr. Swetha Kodali, Assistant Professor, Dept. of RMCS, College of Community Science, PJTAU, Hyderabad. 14.1 Introduction 14.2 Consumer related Government Organizations 14.3 Consumer Advocacy in India 14.4 Successful Consumer Advocacy Campaigns |
240-255 |
Dr. SUMAN SINGH
Dr. Suman Singh is an ICAR-Emeritus Professor at Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology (MPUAT), Udaipur. She retired as Director of Student Welfare, and Chairman of the Sports Board at MPUAT, leaving behind an illustrious career marked by academic excellence and unwavering dedication to student welfare. With a profound passion for Ergonomics and Consumer Education, Dr. Singh has made pioneering contributions to the drudgery reduction of women farmers. Her expertise has been instrumental in leading major research initiatives focused on improving the lives of women in agriculture through technology and ergonomic interventions. Dr. Singh's outstanding research achievements have earned her prestigious national and international accolades. She is the proud recipient of the IEA Liberty Mutual Medal-2009 for Excellence in Research in Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, an internationally esteemed award carrying a cash prize of US$10,000. She was also honoured with the Swami Vivekananda National Award for Women in Consumer Protection by the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Government of India. In recognition of her academic contributions, she was felicitated as the University Best Teacher for Academic Excellence. A prolific scholar, Dr. Singh has authored numerous research papers, delivered presentations on national and international platforms, and holds an impressive record of nine books and seven patents. Her academic engagements have taken her across Korea, the Netherlands, China, France, and Germany, further enriching her global perspective. She remains actively associated with several prestigious professional bodies.
Dr. ROOPA RAO
Dr. Roopa Rao, an Associate Professor at the College of Home Science Nirmala Niketan (Affiliated to the University of Mumbai), brings a wealth of 29+ years in teaching and expertise in Ergonomics, Interior Design, Hospitality Management, and Consumer Education. She has successfully guided over 70 undergraduate and 17 postgraduate research projects and currently mentors 3 PhD scholars. She has authored 40+ publications in national/international journals and five books. Her contributions also extend to various roles in Boards of Studies and as an expert in conferences, seminars, and refresher courses, further emphasizing her commitment to advancing the field of education and research.
Dr. REKHA VYAS
Dr. Rekha Vyas, ICAR Emeritus Professor (FRM) presently working at College of Community and Applied Science, Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur. She has 33 years of work experience and held several administrative posts in the University. Her special interest is in ergonomics and occupational health and safety of workers. A research advisor to PG and Ph.D. students, published 50 research papers, 10 books besides several technical bulletins, manuals, popular articles and book chapters. Was the Editor of all University publications. Attended National and International conferences, workshops, seminars, trainings and visited Malaysia and Sri Lanka. Recipient of Kamla Award for Best Paper published, MPUAT Vice-chancellor award in 2012, 2013 and 2022, Fellow award-2018 from Society of Agricultural Professionals, Appreciation Award at International Conference held at Colombo, Sri Lanka and acted as Scientific Reviewer of International Conference AGRICO-2019.
