World Consumer Rights Day 2025, Theme, History

World Consumer Rights Day 2025 observed on 15 March, 2025 every year is a global event, conducted by the Consumers International. The theme this year is ‘ A just transition to sustainable lifestyles.’ which is celebrated to spread the awareness of protecting buyers from unfair market policies, misleading advertisements and unsafe products. The day is celebrated by activists, organisations and governments through organising discussions, workshops and campaigns on World Consumer Rights Day 2025 to educate people about their rights. In this article, we are going to cover the objectives, features and importance of World Consumer Rights Day 2025. 

World Consumer Rights Day 2025 Overview

World Consumer Rights Day is celebrated on 15 March every year, to highlight the importance of consumer rights and adopting fair trade practices. The aim is to educate people about fair trade practices, consumer protection laws and business operations. The day ensures that consumers are getting access to safe products and services. 

World Consumer Rights Day 2025 Theme

The theme of World Consumer Rights Day 2025 is “ A Just Transition to Sustainable Lifestyles.” The theme reminds consumers about the importance of making sustainable and healthy lifestyle choices accessible, available and affordable for everyone. The goal is to help people and fulfill the fundamental rights and needs while making the transitioning of choices smoothly. 

History of World Consumer Rights Day

World Consumer Rights Day was celebrated for the first time in 1983 as a mark of anniversary of the former U.S. President John F. Kennedy’s speech was delivered in 1962. During his speech, Kennedy addressed consumer rights issues in the U.S. Congress and covered four important consumer rights: 

• Right to Safety
• Right to Information
• Right to Choose
• Right to Be Heard

In 1985, the United Nations adopted the UN Guidelines for Consumer Protection, strengthening the global efforts of prioritising consumer welfare. After 1985, all countries around the world have been celebrating this day to show a collective effort to fight against fraud, unfair trade practices and exploitation. 

Consumer Rights Day in India

India celebrates National Consumer Rights Day on 24 December every year. India adopted the Consumer Protection Act, 1986 on this day and hence laid the foundation of consumer rights in the country. The day aims to spread awareness about the importance of consumer laws and their enforcement with the involvement of legal bodies and consumer forums. The government adopts many initiatives and campaigns to educate citizens and their rights. 

List of Consumer Rights in India

The Consumer Protection Act of India grants consumers several rights to promote fair trade practices and safeguard them from exploitation. Here are the key consumer rights in India:

• Right to Safety – Protection from hazardous goods and services.
• Right to Information – Access to accurate and transparent details about products and services.
• Right to Choice – Freedom to select from a variety of goods at competitive prices.
• Right to Be Heard – Consumers can voice grievances and seek resolution.
• Right to Seek Redressal – Legal remedies against unfair trade practices and defective products.
• Right to Consumer Education – Awareness of rights and responsibilities for informed decision-making.

These rights empower consumers to stand against fraudulent practices and defective products, ensuring their interests are well protected.

Consumer Rights Protection Initiatives in India

The Indian government has launched several initiatives to empower consumers and enhance grievance redressal mechanisms. Here are some key measures aimed at strengthening consumer rights in India:

• Consumer Protection Act, 2019 – Strengthens consumer rights and imposes penalties for misleading advertisements.
• E-Daakhil Portal – A digital platform for consumers to file complaints online for faster resolution.
• Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) – Regulates and addresses unfair trade practices.
• National Consumer Helpline (NCH) – A toll-free helpline (1800-11-4000) for consumer complaints and assistance.
• Jago Grahak Jago Campaign – A long-running awareness program educating consumers about their rights.
• Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Certification – Ensures the quality and safety of consumer goods.
• E-Commerce Guidelines for Consumer Protection, 2019 – Mandate fair pricing, return policies, and efficient grievance redressal for online shoppers.

These initiatives ensure that consumers in India are well-informed, protected, and equipped to fight fraudulent practices.

As World Consumer Rights Day 2025 approaches, it serves as a reminder of the importance of consumer awareness and fair market practices. With the rapid growth of digital transactions and e-commerce, safeguarding consumer rights has become more crucial than ever.

World Consumer Rights Day FAQs

Q1.What is World Consumer Rights Day?
Ans. World Consumer Rights Day is observed annually on March 15 to raise global awareness about consumer rights and protection.

Q2.Who is the father of World Consumer Rights Day?
Ans. President John F. Kennedy is considered the father of World Consumer Rights Day, as he formally addressed consumer rights in 1962.

Q3. Why is National Consumer Day celebrated?
Ans. National Consumer Day is celebrated to emphasize the importance of consumer rights and ensure protection against unfair trade practices and market exploitation.

Q4. What is the theme of World Consumer Rights Day 2025?
Ans. The theme for World Consumer Rights Day 2025 is "A Just Transition to Sustainable Lifestyles."

Q5. What is the slogan of Consumer Day?
Ans. Common slogans for Consumer Day include "Your products, your rights" and "Know your right to consume."