Tag: Consumer Protection

Business

GCCI’s 2nd Consumer Protection Awareness Programme Empowers Students and Locals at Dhargal

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

The Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), through its Consumer Protection Committee, organized its 2nd Awareness Programme on Consumer Protection for the B.Com students of DMC College, Mapusa. The event was held on 7th November 2025 at the Shree Shantadurga Devasthan Hall, Dhargal, and aimed to spread awareness about consumer rights and responsibilities among students, faculty members, and local villagers.

Mr. Ketan Kashinath Phaldesai, Assistant Director of Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, was the Guest Speaker for the programme. He delivered an insightful and interactive session on the importance of consumer awareness and the mechanisms available for grievance redressal. Mr. Phaldesai provided an overview of the consumer movement in India, tracing its historical evolution and emphasizing the enactment of the Consumer Protection Acts of 1986 and 2019. He elaborated on the rights and responsibilities of consumers and encouraged participants to remain vigilant and proactive in protecting their interests.

The programme began with a welcome address by Mrs. Amita Salatry, Chairperson of the Consumer Protection Committee. Mr. Amit Sawant, a member of the Committee and Deputy Director of Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, shared insights on the significance and definition of consumer protection. The dais also included Committee Member Prof. Subhash Kavthankar, Prof. Chandru Govekar from DMC College, Prof. Dhanish Kumar, and Panch Member of Dhargal Panchayat, Mr. Satish Dhumal.

The event was compered by Ms. Neha Indear, a student of DMC College, while Ms. Neha Vishwakarma delivered the Vote of Thanks, expressing gratitude to all dignitaries and participants. The initiative successfully created awareness among young students and local residents, reinforcing GCCI’s commitment to promoting consumer education and responsible citizenship across Goa.

Health

GCCI Hosts Consumer Awareness Program on Patient Safety and Safe Use of Medicines

Tanisha Cardozo

Panjim, 5 October 2025 — In a continued effort to build public awareness around healthcare safety and consumer rights, the Consumer Protection Committee of the Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), in collaboration with the Directorate of Food and Drugs Administration (FDA), Goa, hosted a Consumer Awareness Program on the theme “Patient Safety and Safe Use of Medicines.” The event took place on Saturday, 4th October 2025, at the Surendrababu Timblo Convention Hall, GCCI, and was tailored for M.Com Part I students of the Government College of Arts, Science and Commerce, Khandola.

The session was led by Dr Sarita Bhonsle, Coordinator of the Goa Price Monitoring and Resource Unit (PMRU), who focused on educating future professionals about responsible medicine use and the importance of patient safety. Dr Bhonsle outlined the key roles played by the FDA in regulating medicines and ensuring safety for all consumers. She introduced students to critical national initiatives such as the Pharma Sahi Daam app, a government tool that helps users compare medicine prices and make informed, cost-effective choices.

She also spoke about the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras, which are operational across Goa and offer generic medicines at prices significantly lower than branded equivalents—making healthcare more accessible and affordable for the general public. Emphasizing that patient safety is a shared responsibility, Dr Bhonsle urged students to be informed consumers and advocates for transparency in healthcare.

The event commenced with opening remarks from Ms Amita Salatry, Chairperson of the Consumer Protection Committee, GCCI. Ms Melane Rodrigues, Assistant Director, GCCI, introduced the keynote speaker, and the program concluded with a vote of thanks from Mr Sunil Morajkar, Vice Chairman of the Committee. The event was compered by Prof. Subhash Khautankar, Committee Member.

In addition to the main session, students were given a guided tour of the GCCI Secretariat. Mr Sanjay Amonkar, Director General of GCCI, introduced the students to various departments within the Chamber and explained how GCCI supports businesses and consumers across the state. He also offered insights into the current Goods and Services Tax (GST) framework, helping students connect their academic learning to real-world applications.

This initiative by GCCI reflects its ongoing commitment to nurturing informed citizens, future-ready professionals, and a healthier, more empowered society.

Books & Literature

Empowering Consumers through Education

allycaralgoa

The release of the “Graham Hakka Jagruti” book marks a significant milestone in the efforts to promote consumer awareness and protection in India. Authored by Retired Judge Dhananjay Jog, this comprehensive guide aims to educate consumers about their rights and responsibilities, empowering them to make informed decisions and demand better services.

Key Features of the Book

  1. Consumer Rights and Responsibilities: The book provides an in-depth understanding of consumer rights, including the right to safety, the right to information, and the right to redressal.
  2. Consumer Protection Laws: The book covers various consumer protection laws, including the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, and the rules and regulations governing consumer protection.
  3. Complaint Redressal Mechanisms: The book provides guidance on how to file complaints, the procedures for redressal, and the role of consumer courts and forums.
  4. Tips for Informed Decision-Making: The book offers practical tips on how to make informed purchasing decisions, including how to read labels, how to compare prices, and how to avoid unfair trade practices.

The “Graham Hakka Jagruti” book has the potential to make a significant impact on consumer awareness and protection in India. By educating consumers about their rights and responsibilities, the book can:

  1. Empower Consumers: The book can empower consumers to make informed decisions, demand better services, and report unfair practices.
  2. Promote Transparency: The book can promote transparency in business practices, encouraging companies to be more accountable and responsible.
  3. Reduce Consumer Complaints: The book can reduce consumer complaints by providing guidance on how to avoid unfair trade practices and how to resolve disputes.

The “Graham Hakka Jagruti” book is a valuable resource for consumers, providing them with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the marketplace with confidence. By promoting consumer awareness and protection, the book can contribute to a fairer and more transparent marketplace, ultimately benefiting both consumers and businesses.