Commercial Studies [3 marks Question-Answer]

Products should not cause any physical danger to consumers or put them in difficulty due to any reason. Consumers must have assurance regarding quality, reliability and performance. There are so many common household items, now available to consumers that contain potentially harmful substances. Food additives, food colouring and pesticides further add new potential dangers. With the advancement of science and technology, consumer products have become highly complex and intricate. Therefore, responsibility for their safety should be fixed on producers and distributors.This is the right to be protected against the marketing of goods which are hazardous to life and property. There are various risks involved in the consumption and use of products, such as food, drugs, toys, electrical appliances, etc. For example, gas cylinder, if not sealed properly, may cause injury to life or even death. The consumers have the right to get protection against such risks.

Five rights of consumers are as follows:
(i) The right to be protected against the marketing of goods which are hazardous to life and property.
(ii) The right to be given access to a variety of goods at fair prices.
(iii) The right to seek redressal for undesirable practices by sellers.
(iv) The right to be informed about the quality, quantity, purity and prices of goods/services.
(v) The right to be educated about consumer rights and remedies available to them.