Consumer protection key to Viksit Bharat, says Minister

Minister for Legal Metrology Digambar Kamat on Thursday said his department is working to ensure consumer protection as part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Viksit Bharat vision and Chief Minister Pramod Sawant's Swayampurna Goem mission by 2037.
Speaking at Goa Consumer Rights Day, organised by the Department of Legal Metrology in collaboration with the District Rural Development Agency, Kamat underscored the need for consumers to stay alert against attempts by unscrupulous traders.
"My department is committed to protecting consumers and their rights. However, consumers also need to stay alert and not be fooled by traders. Checking goods before purchase will go a long way in protecting consumers' rights," he said.
Complimenting the initiatives taken by the Legal Metrology Department under Secretary Sanjeev Gadkar, IAS, and Controller R. Borkar, the minister said the department is working to safeguard consumers' interests.
"Consumers are an important part of society. When the Prime Minister talks about Viksit Bharat and the Chief Minister about Swayampurna Goem, the Legal Metrology Department will also strive to secure and protect consumers' rights," he added.
The minister also recognised consumer rights activist Roland Martins for his selfless and tireless efforts to protect consumers' interests.
"I have known Roland Martins for over a decade and a half. He is a consumer rights activist who works at the grassroots to create awareness and protect consumers' rights. Unlike many others, he not only criticises the government but also offers constructive suggestions," he said.
Legal Metrology Secretary Sanjeev Gadkar said consumer protection is the cornerstone of a just society and that consumer rights form the foundation of a fair social order.
"Every consumer is a stakeholder in the nation's economic progress. Their voice needs to be heard and protected. Consumer affairs is not just about protecting consumers, but also about their empowerment and dignity," he added.
Navelim MLA Ulhas Tuenkar also addressed the programme.