NCERT Economics Class 10 | Consumer Rights

Topic & sub-topics covered: Consumer Rights: Consumer Rights (All single detail notes are exam-oriented).

We have discussed in-depth and exam-oriented pointers that can be asked in the board exam of class 10th about “Consumer Rights” which is taken from the NCERT Economics notes for class 10th chapter 5 “Consumer Rights“.

Download the NCERT Economics for Class 10th Chapter 5 Consumer Rights PDF

“Download the NCERT Economics for Class 10th Chapter 5 Consumer Rights PDF” is essential for students. It offers insights into The Consumer In The Marketplace, aiding comprehension of Consumer Rights. Students gain access to in-depth analyses, case studies, and theories, enhancing their understanding.

NCERT Class 10 Economics Chapter 5 Consumer Rights Class 10 Notes PDF

This chapter provides detailed insights into the rights and responsibilities of consumers, the role of consumer protection laws like the Consumer Protection Act (COPRA), and the importance of consumer awareness in today’s market-driven economy. By downloading this resource, you equip yourself with valuable knowledge that helps in exams and empowers you as an informed consumer.

Consumer Rights

Safety Is Everyone’s Right:

1. Case of Medical Negligence:

• Reji Mathew, a Class IX student, suffered brain abnormalities due to improper anaesthesia during a tonsillectomy in Kerala.
• His father filed a complaint with the State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission for Rs 5,00,000 as compensation for medical negligence.
• The State Commission dismissed the complaint due to insufficient evidence.
• Reji’s father appealed to the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, which held the hospital responsible and ordered compensation.

2. Consumer Rights:

• Consumers have the right to protection against hazardous goods and services.
• This includes the marketing and delivery of products that could endanger life and property.

3. Responsibility of Producers:

• Producers must follow safety rules and regulations strictly.
• Example: Safety valves in pressure cookers must be of high quality to prevent accidents.

4. Need for Government and Public Action:

• Government and public action are necessary to ensure that safety standards are maintained.
• Weak supervision and a lack of a strong consumer movement lead to the presence of poor-quality products in the market.

5. Importance of Consumer Vigilance:

• Consumers must be vigilant and assertive in claiming their rights, especially in cases of negligence and substandard products.

Information about Goods and Services:

1. Information on Product Packaging:

• Product packaging includes details such as ingredients, price, batch number, date of manufacture, expiry date, and manufacturer’s address.
• Specific items like medicines and garments provide additional instructions (e.g., directions for use, side effects, washing instructions).

2. Purpose of Displaying Information:

• The display of such information is mandated by rules to protect consumer rights.
• Ensures that consumers are informed about the particulars of goods and services they purchase.

3. Consumer Rights and Protection:

• Consumers have the right to ask for compensation or replacement if a product is defective.
• The presence of an expiry date allows consumers to demand a replacement for defective goods within the valid period.

4. Role of Maximum Retail Price (MRP):

• MRP indicates the highest price at which a product can be sold.
• Consumers can protest if a product is sold above the MRP and even bargain for a price lower than the MRP.

5. Expansion of the Right to Information (RTI):

• The Right to Information has been extended to include services provided by the government.
• In October 2005, the Indian government enacted the RTI Act, granting citizens access to information about government functions.

6. Significance of the RTI Act:

• The RTI Act empowers citizens to hold the government accountable by providing access to essential information.
• It is a vital tool for ensuring transparency in government operations.

When choice is Denied:

1. Right to Choice:

• Every consumer has the right to choose whether to continue receiving a service, regardless of age, gender, or type of service.

2. Denial of Right to Choice:

• The right to choice is violated if a consumer is forced to buy additional products they do not want.
• Example: A shop owner insisting that a customer buys a toothbrush along with toothpaste.

3. Examples of Forced Purchases:

• Gas supply dealers sometimes compel customers to buy a stove when taking a new gas connection.
• Such practices deny consumers their right to make independent purchasing decisions.

4. Consumer Awareness:

• Consumers should be aware of their right to choice and resist pressure to buy unwanted products.
• Ensuring this right helps prevent unfair trade practices and promotes consumer empowerment.

Where should consumers go to get justice?

1. Consumer Rights Violations:

• Cases like those of Reji Mathew and Abirami illustrate common instances of consumers being denied their rights.
• Consumers frequently face unfair trade practices and exploitation in India.

2. Right to Seek Redressal:

• Consumers have the right to seek redressal against unfair practices and exploitation.
• Compensation depends on the degree of damage suffered by the consumer.

3. Filing a Complaint:

• Consumers can file complaints before the appropriate consumer forum, with or without the assistance of lawyers.
• Complaints can be filed physically or online, with cases conducted through video conferencing.

4. Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions:

• A three-tier quasi-judicial machinery under COPRA exists at the district, state, and national levels.

1. District Commission: Handles cases up to Rs 1 crore.
2. State Commission: Handles cases between Rs 1 crore and Rs 10 crore.
3. National Commission: Handles cases above Rs 10 crore.

• Consumers can appeal to higher commissions if their case is dismissed at a lower level.

5. Role of Consumer Forums and Protection Councils:

• Consumer forums and protection councils guide consumers in filing cases and may represent them.
• These voluntary organizations often receive government support to raise consumer awareness.

6. Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs):

• RWAs may take up cases on behalf of members facing unfair trade practices.

7. Impact of COPRA:

• COPRA has empowered consumers to represent themselves in Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions.
• The act ensures access to justice and redressal for consumers at multiple levels.

Next & Previous Topics of NCERT/CBSE Economics Class 10 Chapter 5: Consumer Rights

Topics No.	Topics Name
1	The Consumer In The Marketplace
2	Consumer Movement
3	Consumer Rights
4	Learning To Become Well-informed Consumers
5	Taking The Consumer Movement Forward