Consumerism : It helps develop a good relationship between producers and consumers.
Consumerism is a simple word, yet it has a deep meaning and keeps utmost importance for the consumers. It deals with the rights of the consumers and helps to protect them against unlawful marketing and trade practices. It is the most delicate issue of today. As consumers today are well educated, and they know what they need for their consumption. The people have become more advanced and well-informed, and they know how to protect themselves from unfair product advertisements.
The word consumerism came into existence in the early 1900s, when the concern about the unhealthy meat supply came to public notice. By the beginning of the 1930s, the consumers became more enlightened and educated about their rights. This led to the increasing importance of consumerism. Even during the year 1936, the government came up with certain acts and regulations to control the marketing mal-practices made by certain companies.
With the growth and development of industries, the importance of consumerism grew even stronger among consumers. It became a social-movement in many developed countries in the mid-1960s. The government of many countries came up with different legislations to protect the rights of a consumer. They also set up courts to punish corrupt business houses and protect consumer rights. The companies were strictly ordered to adhere to the regulative norms of product manufacture and delivery. Many companies even had to set up customer care cells to help the customer with their grievances.
In India, Consumerism is still in the infancy stage, and therefore the consumers need more support from the government to protect their rights as a consumer. In India, the shortage of essential commodities occurs more often, which leads to black-marketing and corruption. Most of the sellers advertise their products to sell off their finished products at a good profit. They don’t advertise with the view to serve the public. Most of the consumers are not well aware of their rights, making them easy victims of these black-marketers and corruptions.
Customer orientation should be made compulsory in countries like India to make the people aware of their rights and duties as consumers. This will also help them to safeguard themselves from unfair trade practices.
The act for consumer protection was passed in the year 1986 in India. This act helps to seek redressal for consumer grievances. The Consumer protection act of 1986 is applicable to all types of goods and services in India. Under the act, the government of India has set up courts in each state to listen to the problems and grievances of the common people and provide justice.
Consumerism is never against monopoly markets or profit-making. It has nothing to do with the foreign exchange control measures, but it is only there for the protection of the consumers. Lastly, to conclude, It is the duty of the government and the businessman to provide good service and quality products to the consumers. And consumers should also be aware of their rights and duties to stay protected from unlawful marketing.
In conclusion, it can be said that consumerism is a vast concept, and it helps to provide the customers with their desired products and services. It also helps them to seek redressal for their grievances. It makes them aware of their rights as consumers and helps them raise their voices against corrupt sellers.
Consumerism is a vast concept that includes not only consumer protection but also environmentalism. It protects the wastage of natural resources that are scarce. It states that the natural resources of a country must be well conserved for its economic stability and growth.
In simple words, consumerism is a boon as well as a curse to society and to companies operating in society. If used in a rightful manner, it will act as a blessing for both the company and the consumer. But if the consumers misuse it, it can take a dramatic turn and ruin the name and fame of a company. The government has to take the right initiative for the benefit of both consumers and businesses.
