Rethinking Health Claims: Ensuring Transparency and Accountability for Consumers

Rethinking Health Claims: Ensuring Transparency and Accountability for Consumers

In a recent development, iconic health drink brands like Bournvita are set to lose their ‘health drink’ status. This announcement marks a significant shift in the narrative surrounding these products and raises pertinent questions about the transparency and accountability of health claims in the consumer market.

For years, products like Bournvita have been marketed as essential supplements for promoting health and well-being, especially among children. However, the reclassification of these beverages challenges the conventional understanding of what constitutes a ‘health drink.’ It prompts us to reevaluate the claims made by manufacturers and underscores the need for greater scrutiny and regulation in the consumer goods industry.

The decision to revoke the ‘health drink’ status comes amid growing concerns about the nutritional value and health implications of such products. While they may offer certain benefits, the emphasis on their health-promoting properties often overshadows critical aspects such as sugar content, artificial additives, and overall nutritional balance.

Consumers, particularly parents, rely on these health drink brands with the expectation that they will contribute positively to their family’s well-being. However, the reclassification serves as a wake-up call, urging consumers to exercise greater discernment and demand transparency from manufacturers regarding the ingredients and nutritional composition of these products.

Moreover, this development underscores the importance of robust regulatory frameworks to protect consumer interests. It highlights the need for stringent guidelines governing health claims in advertising and packaging, ensuring that consumers are not misled by exaggerated or unsubstantiated assertions.

As consumers, we have the right to make informed choices about the products we purchase and consume. This includes access to accurate and reliable information about their nutritional content and potential health implications. The reclassification of ‘health drinks’ like Bournvita serves as a reminder of the responsibility that manufacturers bear in providing transparent and truthful representations of their products. It is a call to action for both manufacturers and regulators to prioritize the well-being of consumers above commercial interests. By fostering a culture of transparency and accountability, we can ensure that consumers make informed choices that promote their health and vitality.

We extend our sincere appreciation to our esteemed readers for their unwavering support. Your engagement, feedback, and ideas play a pivotal role in our mission to deliver informative articles. Share your thoughts and suggestions at info@consumer-voice.org, as together, we nurture a knowledgeable and empowered community.

Wishing you an enriching and enjoyable reading experience ahead!

Pallabi Boruah

Editor

All Editorials

A Vision Unveiled: India’s Budget 2024

People from all walks of life are enthralled by the yearly budget every year. This year, the government's main focus is on fiscal consolidation, with the goal of bringing the budget deficit down to 5.1% in FY-25—a considerable decrease from 5.8% in FY-24. The...

Empowering Choices: A Path to Sustainable Consumerism

Exploring the wide array of consumer choices reveals both positive and negative trends that significantly impact the market, the environment, and society. On the positive side, there is an encouraging shift towards informed consumerism, with individuals prioritizing...

Legal Landmark, Fintech Diplomacy, and Progress in India

In a ground-breaking legal development, the Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court has made a resounding decision. The Court has nullified the CP Rules, the Selection Committee, and the examination conducted for the selection of Presidents and Members of District and...

A Historic Moment for India and a Global Commitment to Health

History was scripted when The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Eighth Amendment) Bill, 2023, seeking to reserve 33% of seats in Lok Sabha and state Assemblies for women, was passed unanimously by Rajya Sabha, a day after it sailed through Lok Sabha. The passage of...

Addressing India’s Taxpayer Base and Refunds: A Step Forward

India's tax landscape is showing positive signs of growth and participation, as highlighted by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. In the fiscal year 2022-23, 2.24 crore individuals out of the total 7.4 crore taxpayers diligently fulfilled their tax obligations,...

Artificial sweeteners aren’t sweet for your health

Let’s start off with something related to our health, shall we? For those of you who choose diet coke or zero-calorie soda as a means to control your weight, there is some concerning information. The World Health Organization (WHO) recently released new guidelines...

Controversies and many more

A recent video on the super high sugar content of Bournvita by a social media influencer went viral. The Mondelez India-owned health drink company dismissed charges of excessive sugar content, calling the video "unscientific" and accusing it of "distorting facts and...

Is India Growing?

The Union Health Ministry is preparing to alter the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act, a significant step that will require OTT (over-the-top) platforms or streaming services to display health warnings during smoking scenes in motion pictures and Web series...

 ‘India: Growing by leaps and bounds’.

Let's start off on a positive note, shall we? An International Monetary Fund (IMF) official predicted that India would contribute 15% to world growth in 2023. In the approaching year, it is anticipated that China and India will each contribute 50% to global growth...

Some Exciting News

Let’s start off with something encouraging, shall we? According to data made public by the Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation (MoSPI), India's retail inflation rate reduced slightly from the previous month and continued to fall below the Reserve...

A New India

Let’s start off with some good news, shall we? According to the most recent monthly Refinitiv-Ipsos Primary Consumer Sentiment Index (PCSI) report, consumer sentiment among urban Indians has improved and increased by 1.1 percentage points in December 2022. Amit...

Changing demographics in India

Let’s start off with some good news, shall we? According to the trade group Consumer Electronics and Appliances Manufacturers Association (CEAMA), the Indian Appliances and Consumer Electronics (ACE) market is anticipated to nearly double over the next three years,...

Dynamic subtle changes in India

The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has changed the country's payment system, thereby promoting economic growth. Since UPI was first launched, life has become easier. UPI is currently accepted everywhere, including by taxi drivers, valet parking services, malls, toll...

Positive Economic Outlook

23 per cent of the world's milk production is contributed by the dairy sector of India. It ranks first across the globe. But the rising cases of the Lumpy Skin Disease have thrown the nation out of gear. The lumpy skin disease is a viral infection commonly occurring...

Plastic Straw Ban On: Fight against Pollution

The Central Government has banned 19 single-use plastic items from July 1, including straws. This ban has led to companies including Dabur India Ltd. and Parle Agro Pvt, racing to replace them with imported paper versions. Of the 380 million tons of plastic produced...

Agneepath and Agniveer: In a Nutshell

In a historic decision by the Union Cabinet, an attractive recruitment scheme for Indian youth to serve in the Armed Forces has been introduced with the name AGNEEPATH. The youth selected under the Agneepath scheme will be categorised as Agniveers. With the...

Cut in Fuel Prices, Subsidy on Cylinders: Easing the Burden

With the announcement by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman of the cut in fuel prices, the citizens of India as a whole heaved a sigh of relief. With the price of petrol coming down by ₹ 9.5, diesel getting cheaper by ₹ 7, it is a sharp cut in central excise duty on...

E-commerce complaints tops list in national consumer helpline

Out of the almost 60,000 odd complaints that reach the central government's national consumer helpline (NCH) every month, about 36% is for e-commerce. In 2020, the national helpline received 6, 54,192 grievances of which 28.5% was e-commerce related issues. Banking,...

Is the Budget 2022 Middle Class Friendly?

The Finance Bill 2022 presented by India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1 announced measures for a number of sectors. It aimed at boosting growth amidst growing inflation added with the uncertainties of the Covid-19 pandemic. PM Modi hailed the...

Why India is so cryptic about crypto?

Well, true!  Cryptos have been quite popular in India and now with the imposition of 30% tax on all digital incomes including NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) and cryptos made the investors community lose a heart again. My introduction to crypto happened just a few...

The other Covid Effets

When we just thought we are in the endemic stage and the worst is over, we’ve variant, Omicron now. It has hit the world. India too has reported 21 cases so far including 7 in Jaipur, 1 in Delhi, 11 in Maharashtra and 2 in Karnataka as I write this piece. I’m sure the...

Festivals lighted up consumption. But will it last?

Festivals, especially Deepawali, the festival that Indians observe to celebrate the return of Ram from his 14 years of exile reminded us of the triumph of good over evil. Indians across the regions celebrate the day differently, however, the ethos across the country...

Veganism and India

FSSAI’s recent Vegan logo announcement is a remarkable development in the popularity of vegan foods in India. Going by different reports, it comes to a surprising fact that there was a 47% rise in the vegan related searches in the year 2020. The growing interests for...

What can we learn from Olympians?

What can we learn from Olympians?To be resilient should be the first lesson irrespective of what work you are doing. Irrespective of the time and severity, you will be knocked down at some point and the mental strength to bounce back and punch a blow on the "face of...

Reaching the inaccessible

Atul, a boy in grade 5 used to be a bright and talented student until the pandemic began. Due to the closure of schools, he like many of his friends were unable to continue classes and studies. His mother who used to work in a nearby shoe factory had to give up her...

The Vaccination Mirage

There was a popular tweet doing the rounds lately. It said, India’s vaccination drive is like going for a marriage. At first, the groom wasn’t ready for it, then there was no suitable match and then the groom, because of not getting what he wanted, had to settle with...

Why consumption is good

There is an amazing capacity of consumption. I feel, we consumers are the happiest souls when we consume something of our choice. Be it a slice of pizza, driving a newly launched SUV, consuming content (print and digital both or mere a book). The bottom line is- our...

Stories of hope in pandemic

The deadliest is again on us. It is dangerous than ever before, took lives of thousands already and showing no sign of settling soon. Where there are numerous stories floating every day on nonavailability of many healthcare facilities, medicines, oxygen and doctors;...

Transforming Consumer Dispute Resolution: Embracing Technology for Enhanced Accessibility

Transforming Consumer Dispute Resolution: Embracing Technology for Enhanced Accessibility

Transforming Consumer Dispute Resolution: Embracing Technology for Enhanced Accessibility

Consumer dispute resolution panels nationwide are currently undergoing a significant transformation driven by technology-oriented initiatives. The primary aim of this modernization is to enhance accessibility, ensure prompt resolution of disputes, reduce costs, and mitigate delays, thus reinforcing trust in the established dispute resolution mechanism.

Justice Surendra Mohan (President of the Kerala State & Lakshadweep Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission) emphasized the significance of cautiously accepting new technology, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), in consumer dispute resolution during the recent World Consumer Rights Day event. He acknowledged that AI may speed up the processing of outstanding complaints, but he also emphasized the need for consumers to be informed of the possible risks involved in using these technologies. This year’s theme, ‘Fair and Responsible AI for Consumers,’ underscores the significance of striking a balance between technological advancement and consumer protection.

The effectiveness of consumer dispute resolution forums is set to be revolutionized by the incorporation of new technology, such as artificial intelligence (AI), and the simplification of online filing and evidence collecting. President D.B. Binu of the Ernakulam District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission reiterated this idea, pointing out that technology developments will motivate more customers to use consumer forums for redress. With the advent of online filing options, complaints may now be easily filed from the comfort of one’s home, which is a big benefit for those who live overseas.

Consumer complaints pertaining to e-commerce transactions have significantly increased, according to recent statistics from the National Consumer Helpline. The number of complaints from consumers purchasing products and services online has increased by more than 30% in the last year, which is indicative of the rising amount of complaints in the online marketplace. Ms. Surya noted this trend, emphasizing the urgent need for efficient dispute resolution mechanisms in the digital realm.

Key features of the new technology induction include AI-based speech recognition and translation systems, multilingual chatbot integration, and voice-enabled interactive voice recognition systems. These advancements are anticipated not only to enhance accessibility but also to enrich user experiences, reduce manual interventions, optimize call centre efficiency, and foster opportunities for continuous improvement.

The integration of advanced technologies in consumer dispute resolution heralds a promising era of enhanced accessibility, efficiency, and transparency. However, it is essential to proceed cautiously, ensuring that technological advancements are utilized responsibly to safeguard consumer rights and uphold principles of fairness and justice.

We extend our sincere appreciation to our esteemed readers for their unwavering support. Your engagement, feedback, and ideas play a pivotal role in our mission to deliver informative articles. Share your thoughts and suggestions at info@consumer-voice.org, as together, we nurture a knowledgeable and empowered community.

Wishing you an enriching and enjoyable reading experience ahead!

Pallabi Boruah

Editor

All Editorials

A Vision Unveiled: India’s Budget 2024

People from all walks of life are enthralled by the yearly budget every year. This year, the government's main focus is on fiscal consolidation, with the goal of bringing the budget deficit down to 5.1% in FY-25—a considerable decrease from 5.8% in FY-24. The...

Empowering Choices: A Path to Sustainable Consumerism

Exploring the wide array of consumer choices reveals both positive and negative trends that significantly impact the market, the environment, and society. On the positive side, there is an encouraging shift towards informed consumerism, with individuals prioritizing...

Legal Landmark, Fintech Diplomacy, and Progress in India

In a ground-breaking legal development, the Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court has made a resounding decision. The Court has nullified the CP Rules, the Selection Committee, and the examination conducted for the selection of Presidents and Members of District and...

A Historic Moment for India and a Global Commitment to Health

History was scripted when The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Eighth Amendment) Bill, 2023, seeking to reserve 33% of seats in Lok Sabha and state Assemblies for women, was passed unanimously by Rajya Sabha, a day after it sailed through Lok Sabha. The passage of...

Addressing India’s Taxpayer Base and Refunds: A Step Forward

India's tax landscape is showing positive signs of growth and participation, as highlighted by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. In the fiscal year 2022-23, 2.24 crore individuals out of the total 7.4 crore taxpayers diligently fulfilled their tax obligations,...

Artificial sweeteners aren’t sweet for your health

Let’s start off with something related to our health, shall we? For those of you who choose diet coke or zero-calorie soda as a means to control your weight, there is some concerning information. The World Health Organization (WHO) recently released new guidelines...

Controversies and many more

A recent video on the super high sugar content of Bournvita by a social media influencer went viral. The Mondelez India-owned health drink company dismissed charges of excessive sugar content, calling the video "unscientific" and accusing it of "distorting facts and...

Is India Growing?

The Union Health Ministry is preparing to alter the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act, a significant step that will require OTT (over-the-top) platforms or streaming services to display health warnings during smoking scenes in motion pictures and Web series...

 ‘India: Growing by leaps and bounds’.

Let's start off on a positive note, shall we? An International Monetary Fund (IMF) official predicted that India would contribute 15% to world growth in 2023. In the approaching year, it is anticipated that China and India will each contribute 50% to global growth...

Some Exciting News

Let’s start off with something encouraging, shall we? According to data made public by the Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation (MoSPI), India's retail inflation rate reduced slightly from the previous month and continued to fall below the Reserve...

A New India

Let’s start off with some good news, shall we? According to the most recent monthly Refinitiv-Ipsos Primary Consumer Sentiment Index (PCSI) report, consumer sentiment among urban Indians has improved and increased by 1.1 percentage points in December 2022. Amit...

Changing demographics in India

Let’s start off with some good news, shall we? According to the trade group Consumer Electronics and Appliances Manufacturers Association (CEAMA), the Indian Appliances and Consumer Electronics (ACE) market is anticipated to nearly double over the next three years,...

Dynamic subtle changes in India

The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has changed the country's payment system, thereby promoting economic growth. Since UPI was first launched, life has become easier. UPI is currently accepted everywhere, including by taxi drivers, valet parking services, malls, toll...

Positive Economic Outlook

23 per cent of the world's milk production is contributed by the dairy sector of India. It ranks first across the globe. But the rising cases of the Lumpy Skin Disease have thrown the nation out of gear. The lumpy skin disease is a viral infection commonly occurring...

Plastic Straw Ban On: Fight against Pollution

The Central Government has banned 19 single-use plastic items from July 1, including straws. This ban has led to companies including Dabur India Ltd. and Parle Agro Pvt, racing to replace them with imported paper versions. Of the 380 million tons of plastic produced...

Agneepath and Agniveer: In a Nutshell

In a historic decision by the Union Cabinet, an attractive recruitment scheme for Indian youth to serve in the Armed Forces has been introduced with the name AGNEEPATH. The youth selected under the Agneepath scheme will be categorised as Agniveers. With the...

Cut in Fuel Prices, Subsidy on Cylinders: Easing the Burden

With the announcement by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman of the cut in fuel prices, the citizens of India as a whole heaved a sigh of relief. With the price of petrol coming down by ₹ 9.5, diesel getting cheaper by ₹ 7, it is a sharp cut in central excise duty on...

E-commerce complaints tops list in national consumer helpline

Out of the almost 60,000 odd complaints that reach the central government's national consumer helpline (NCH) every month, about 36% is for e-commerce. In 2020, the national helpline received 6, 54,192 grievances of which 28.5% was e-commerce related issues. Banking,...

Is the Budget 2022 Middle Class Friendly?

The Finance Bill 2022 presented by India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1 announced measures for a number of sectors. It aimed at boosting growth amidst growing inflation added with the uncertainties of the Covid-19 pandemic. PM Modi hailed the...

Why India is so cryptic about crypto?

Well, true!  Cryptos have been quite popular in India and now with the imposition of 30% tax on all digital incomes including NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) and cryptos made the investors community lose a heart again. My introduction to crypto happened just a few...

The other Covid Effets

When we just thought we are in the endemic stage and the worst is over, we’ve variant, Omicron now. It has hit the world. India too has reported 21 cases so far including 7 in Jaipur, 1 in Delhi, 11 in Maharashtra and 2 in Karnataka as I write this piece. I’m sure the...

Festivals lighted up consumption. But will it last?

Festivals, especially Deepawali, the festival that Indians observe to celebrate the return of Ram from his 14 years of exile reminded us of the triumph of good over evil. Indians across the regions celebrate the day differently, however, the ethos across the country...

Veganism and India

FSSAI’s recent Vegan logo announcement is a remarkable development in the popularity of vegan foods in India. Going by different reports, it comes to a surprising fact that there was a 47% rise in the vegan related searches in the year 2020. The growing interests for...

What can we learn from Olympians?

What can we learn from Olympians?To be resilient should be the first lesson irrespective of what work you are doing. Irrespective of the time and severity, you will be knocked down at some point and the mental strength to bounce back and punch a blow on the "face of...

Reaching the inaccessible

Atul, a boy in grade 5 used to be a bright and talented student until the pandemic began. Due to the closure of schools, he like many of his friends were unable to continue classes and studies. His mother who used to work in a nearby shoe factory had to give up her...

The Vaccination Mirage

There was a popular tweet doing the rounds lately. It said, India’s vaccination drive is like going for a marriage. At first, the groom wasn’t ready for it, then there was no suitable match and then the groom, because of not getting what he wanted, had to settle with...

Why consumption is good

There is an amazing capacity of consumption. I feel, we consumers are the happiest souls when we consume something of our choice. Be it a slice of pizza, driving a newly launched SUV, consuming content (print and digital both or mere a book). The bottom line is- our...

Stories of hope in pandemic

The deadliest is again on us. It is dangerous than ever before, took lives of thousands already and showing no sign of settling soon. Where there are numerous stories floating every day on nonavailability of many healthcare facilities, medicines, oxygen and doctors;...

A Vision Unveiled: India’s Budget 2024

A Vision Unveiled: India’s Budget 2024

A Vision Unveiled: India’s Budget 2024

People from all walks of life are enthralled by the yearly budget every year. This year, the government’s main focus is on fiscal consolidation, with the goal of bringing the budget deficit down to 5.1% in FY-25—a considerable decrease from 5.8% in FY-24. The significant 11% growth in capital expenditure, which totalled an astounding Rs 11.11 lakh crore in FY-25, is the main engine of economic progress.

The goal of this budget is to enhance physical, social, and digital infrastructure in a comprehensive manner. In order to guarantee formalization and financial inclusion, the Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) plays a significant role. There are aggressive measures in place to control inflation and promote active economic growth in all areas, and the tax base expansion through the GST is expected to deepen and broaden.

The “Strategy for Amrit Kaal” represents inclusive development, emphasizing the advancement of four major castes: the ‘Garib’ (poor), ‘Yuva’ (youth), ‘Mahilayen’ (women), and ‘Annadata’ (farmer). To guarantee that the effects of policies are felt all the way to the end, the government is making serious efforts. A million households will receive up to 300 units of free power each month as part of the Rooftop Solarization project.

In a bold move towards sustainable practices, the budget emphasizes ‘LiFE’ – Lifestyle for Environment, with a commitment to achieving “Net-zero” carbon emissions by 2070. Special projects for port connectivity, tourism infrastructure, and amenities are slated for islands, including Lakshadweep.

The Nari Shakti scheme has disbursed 30 crore Mudra Yojana loans to women entrepreneurs, encouraging initiatives like “Cervical Cancer Vaccination” for girls aged 9-14. Recognizing the potential of youth, the government has sanctioned 43 crore loans under PM Mudra Yojana, fostering entrepreneurial aspirations.

The budget places a strong emphasis on implementing the National Education Policy, with a focus on subsequent job creation and business support. The establishment of 30 Skill India International Centres opens doors to international opportunities, and the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme offers stipend support to 47 lakh unemployed youth.

In summary, India’s Budget Highlights 2024 demonstrate a strategic vision ready to support both social and economic advancement. Together with targeted investments, the government’s commitment to budgetary restraint creates the conditions for a vibrant and sustainable economic trajectory. These fiscal policies, which address both short-term issues and long-term goals, aim to move India toward a better future as the country navigates difficulties.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our esteemed readers for their unwavering support. Your engagement, feedback, and ideas play a pivotal role in our mission to deliver informative articles. Share your thoughts and suggestions at info@consumer-voice.org, as together, we foster a knowledgeable and empowered community.

Wishing you an enriching and enjoyable reading experience ahead!

Pallabi Boruah

Editor

All Editorials

A Vision Unveiled: India’s Budget 2024

People from all walks of life are enthralled by the yearly budget every year. This year, the government's main focus is on fiscal consolidation, with the goal of bringing the budget deficit down to 5.1% in FY-25—a considerable decrease from 5.8% in FY-24. The...

Empowering Choices: A Path to Sustainable Consumerism

Exploring the wide array of consumer choices reveals both positive and negative trends that significantly impact the market, the environment, and society. On the positive side, there is an encouraging shift towards informed consumerism, with individuals prioritizing...

Legal Landmark, Fintech Diplomacy, and Progress in India

In a ground-breaking legal development, the Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court has made a resounding decision. The Court has nullified the CP Rules, the Selection Committee, and the examination conducted for the selection of Presidents and Members of District and...

A Historic Moment for India and a Global Commitment to Health

History was scripted when The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Eighth Amendment) Bill, 2023, seeking to reserve 33% of seats in Lok Sabha and state Assemblies for women, was passed unanimously by Rajya Sabha, a day after it sailed through Lok Sabha. The passage of...

Addressing India’s Taxpayer Base and Refunds: A Step Forward

India's tax landscape is showing positive signs of growth and participation, as highlighted by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. In the fiscal year 2022-23, 2.24 crore individuals out of the total 7.4 crore taxpayers diligently fulfilled their tax obligations,...

Artificial sweeteners aren’t sweet for your health

Let’s start off with something related to our health, shall we? For those of you who choose diet coke or zero-calorie soda as a means to control your weight, there is some concerning information. The World Health Organization (WHO) recently released new guidelines...

Controversies and many more

A recent video on the super high sugar content of Bournvita by a social media influencer went viral. The Mondelez India-owned health drink company dismissed charges of excessive sugar content, calling the video "unscientific" and accusing it of "distorting facts and...

Is India Growing?

The Union Health Ministry is preparing to alter the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act, a significant step that will require OTT (over-the-top) platforms or streaming services to display health warnings during smoking scenes in motion pictures and Web series...

 ‘India: Growing by leaps and bounds’.

Let's start off on a positive note, shall we? An International Monetary Fund (IMF) official predicted that India would contribute 15% to world growth in 2023. In the approaching year, it is anticipated that China and India will each contribute 50% to global growth...

Some Exciting News

Let’s start off with something encouraging, shall we? According to data made public by the Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation (MoSPI), India's retail inflation rate reduced slightly from the previous month and continued to fall below the Reserve...

A New India

Let’s start off with some good news, shall we? According to the most recent monthly Refinitiv-Ipsos Primary Consumer Sentiment Index (PCSI) report, consumer sentiment among urban Indians has improved and increased by 1.1 percentage points in December 2022. Amit...

Changing demographics in India

Let’s start off with some good news, shall we? According to the trade group Consumer Electronics and Appliances Manufacturers Association (CEAMA), the Indian Appliances and Consumer Electronics (ACE) market is anticipated to nearly double over the next three years,...

Dynamic subtle changes in India

The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has changed the country's payment system, thereby promoting economic growth. Since UPI was first launched, life has become easier. UPI is currently accepted everywhere, including by taxi drivers, valet parking services, malls, toll...

Positive Economic Outlook

23 per cent of the world's milk production is contributed by the dairy sector of India. It ranks first across the globe. But the rising cases of the Lumpy Skin Disease have thrown the nation out of gear. The lumpy skin disease is a viral infection commonly occurring...

Plastic Straw Ban On: Fight against Pollution

The Central Government has banned 19 single-use plastic items from July 1, including straws. This ban has led to companies including Dabur India Ltd. and Parle Agro Pvt, racing to replace them with imported paper versions. Of the 380 million tons of plastic produced...

Agneepath and Agniveer: In a Nutshell

In a historic decision by the Union Cabinet, an attractive recruitment scheme for Indian youth to serve in the Armed Forces has been introduced with the name AGNEEPATH. The youth selected under the Agneepath scheme will be categorised as Agniveers. With the...

Cut in Fuel Prices, Subsidy on Cylinders: Easing the Burden

With the announcement by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman of the cut in fuel prices, the citizens of India as a whole heaved a sigh of relief. With the price of petrol coming down by ₹ 9.5, diesel getting cheaper by ₹ 7, it is a sharp cut in central excise duty on...

E-commerce complaints tops list in national consumer helpline

Out of the almost 60,000 odd complaints that reach the central government's national consumer helpline (NCH) every month, about 36% is for e-commerce. In 2020, the national helpline received 6, 54,192 grievances of which 28.5% was e-commerce related issues. Banking,...

Is the Budget 2022 Middle Class Friendly?

The Finance Bill 2022 presented by India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1 announced measures for a number of sectors. It aimed at boosting growth amidst growing inflation added with the uncertainties of the Covid-19 pandemic. PM Modi hailed the...

Why India is so cryptic about crypto?

Well, true!  Cryptos have been quite popular in India and now with the imposition of 30% tax on all digital incomes including NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) and cryptos made the investors community lose a heart again. My introduction to crypto happened just a few...

The other Covid Effets

When we just thought we are in the endemic stage and the worst is over, we’ve variant, Omicron now. It has hit the world. India too has reported 21 cases so far including 7 in Jaipur, 1 in Delhi, 11 in Maharashtra and 2 in Karnataka as I write this piece. I’m sure the...

Festivals lighted up consumption. But will it last?

Festivals, especially Deepawali, the festival that Indians observe to celebrate the return of Ram from his 14 years of exile reminded us of the triumph of good over evil. Indians across the regions celebrate the day differently, however, the ethos across the country...

Veganism and India

FSSAI’s recent Vegan logo announcement is a remarkable development in the popularity of vegan foods in India. Going by different reports, it comes to a surprising fact that there was a 47% rise in the vegan related searches in the year 2020. The growing interests for...

What can we learn from Olympians?

What can we learn from Olympians?To be resilient should be the first lesson irrespective of what work you are doing. Irrespective of the time and severity, you will be knocked down at some point and the mental strength to bounce back and punch a blow on the "face of...

Reaching the inaccessible

Atul, a boy in grade 5 used to be a bright and talented student until the pandemic began. Due to the closure of schools, he like many of his friends were unable to continue classes and studies. His mother who used to work in a nearby shoe factory had to give up her...

The Vaccination Mirage

There was a popular tweet doing the rounds lately. It said, India’s vaccination drive is like going for a marriage. At first, the groom wasn’t ready for it, then there was no suitable match and then the groom, because of not getting what he wanted, had to settle with...

Why consumption is good

There is an amazing capacity of consumption. I feel, we consumers are the happiest souls when we consume something of our choice. Be it a slice of pizza, driving a newly launched SUV, consuming content (print and digital both or mere a book). The bottom line is- our...

Stories of hope in pandemic

The deadliest is again on us. It is dangerous than ever before, took lives of thousands already and showing no sign of settling soon. Where there are numerous stories floating every day on nonavailability of many healthcare facilities, medicines, oxygen and doctors;...

Empowering Choices: A Path to Sustainable Consumerism

Empowering Choices: A Path to Sustainable Consumerism

Empowering Choices: A Path to Sustainable Consumerism

Exploring the wide array of consumer choices reveals both positive and negative trends that significantly impact the market, the environment, and society. On the positive side, there is an encouraging shift towards informed consumerism, with individuals prioritizing transparency and ethical business practices. It is awesome to see this vibe extending to sustainability, with more consumers choosing eco-friendly products and pushing companies to be more responsible. Additionally, there is a commendable resurgence in support for local businesses, indicating that people are realizing the importance of helping their communities grow economically.

But, you know, it’s not all rainbows and sunshine. Challenges arise from impulsive buying and overconsumption, contributing to a throwaway culture. Fast fashion, single-use plastics, and excessive packaging reflect a trend that prioritizes instant gratification without thinking about the long-term impact on the planet and our society. Also, blind loyalty to brands can also be detrimental when it fosters allegiance without critical evaluation, potentially perpetuating unethical practices and maybe supporting some not-so-great products. Further, disregard for product lifecycle leads to improper disposal of items, and eventually becomes one of the causes of environmental degradation.

Finding a balance between satisfying your own desires and acting as a responsible steward of the planet and society is important. Making informed choices, ethical consumption, and a commitment to sustainability can collectively shape a consumer landscape that not only fulfils immediate needs but also helps in making the world a better, happier place.

As we take a moment to think about our consumer choices, especially with our 75th Republic Day celebration, it’s a great time to appreciate the values that make our nation so diverse and lively. The positive trends of informed consumerism, sustainability, and support for local businesses align with the principles of unity in diversity and responsible citizenship that our Republic stands for. By making choices that are ethical, good for the planet and embracing sustainability, we contribute not only to our individual well-being but also to the collective prosperity of our nation.

Let us remember that our choices are not just about what we buy – they are woven into the bigger picture of our society. As responsible consumers, let us uphold the ideals of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity that form the cornerstone of our Republic. May our united actions reflect the values that make our nation resilient, inclusive, and forward-looking.

We extend heartfelt gratitude to our esteemed readers for their unwavering support. Your engagement, feedback, and ideas continue to play a pivotal role in our mission to deliver informative articles. We invite you to share your thoughts and suggestions at info@consumer-voice.org, as together, we foster a knowledgeable and empowered community.

Wishing you an enriching and enjoyable reading experience ahead!

Pallabi Boruah

Editor

All Editorials

A Vision Unveiled: India’s Budget 2024

People from all walks of life are enthralled by the yearly budget every year. This year, the government's main focus is on fiscal consolidation, with the goal of bringing the budget deficit down to 5.1% in FY-25—a considerable decrease from 5.8% in FY-24. The...

Empowering Choices: A Path to Sustainable Consumerism

Exploring the wide array of consumer choices reveals both positive and negative trends that significantly impact the market, the environment, and society. On the positive side, there is an encouraging shift towards informed consumerism, with individuals prioritizing...

Legal Landmark, Fintech Diplomacy, and Progress in India

In a ground-breaking legal development, the Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court has made a resounding decision. The Court has nullified the CP Rules, the Selection Committee, and the examination conducted for the selection of Presidents and Members of District and...

A Historic Moment for India and a Global Commitment to Health

History was scripted when The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Eighth Amendment) Bill, 2023, seeking to reserve 33% of seats in Lok Sabha and state Assemblies for women, was passed unanimously by Rajya Sabha, a day after it sailed through Lok Sabha. The passage of...

Addressing India’s Taxpayer Base and Refunds: A Step Forward

India's tax landscape is showing positive signs of growth and participation, as highlighted by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. In the fiscal year 2022-23, 2.24 crore individuals out of the total 7.4 crore taxpayers diligently fulfilled their tax obligations,...

Artificial sweeteners aren’t sweet for your health

Let’s start off with something related to our health, shall we? For those of you who choose diet coke or zero-calorie soda as a means to control your weight, there is some concerning information. The World Health Organization (WHO) recently released new guidelines...

Controversies and many more

A recent video on the super high sugar content of Bournvita by a social media influencer went viral. The Mondelez India-owned health drink company dismissed charges of excessive sugar content, calling the video "unscientific" and accusing it of "distorting facts and...

Is India Growing?

The Union Health Ministry is preparing to alter the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act, a significant step that will require OTT (over-the-top) platforms or streaming services to display health warnings during smoking scenes in motion pictures and Web series...

 ‘India: Growing by leaps and bounds’.

Let's start off on a positive note, shall we? An International Monetary Fund (IMF) official predicted that India would contribute 15% to world growth in 2023. In the approaching year, it is anticipated that China and India will each contribute 50% to global growth...

Some Exciting News

Let’s start off with something encouraging, shall we? According to data made public by the Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation (MoSPI), India's retail inflation rate reduced slightly from the previous month and continued to fall below the Reserve...

A New India

Let’s start off with some good news, shall we? According to the most recent monthly Refinitiv-Ipsos Primary Consumer Sentiment Index (PCSI) report, consumer sentiment among urban Indians has improved and increased by 1.1 percentage points in December 2022. Amit...

Changing demographics in India

Let’s start off with some good news, shall we? According to the trade group Consumer Electronics and Appliances Manufacturers Association (CEAMA), the Indian Appliances and Consumer Electronics (ACE) market is anticipated to nearly double over the next three years,...

Dynamic subtle changes in India

The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has changed the country's payment system, thereby promoting economic growth. Since UPI was first launched, life has become easier. UPI is currently accepted everywhere, including by taxi drivers, valet parking services, malls, toll...

Positive Economic Outlook

23 per cent of the world's milk production is contributed by the dairy sector of India. It ranks first across the globe. But the rising cases of the Lumpy Skin Disease have thrown the nation out of gear. The lumpy skin disease is a viral infection commonly occurring...

Plastic Straw Ban On: Fight against Pollution

The Central Government has banned 19 single-use plastic items from July 1, including straws. This ban has led to companies including Dabur India Ltd. and Parle Agro Pvt, racing to replace them with imported paper versions. Of the 380 million tons of plastic produced...

Agneepath and Agniveer: In a Nutshell

In a historic decision by the Union Cabinet, an attractive recruitment scheme for Indian youth to serve in the Armed Forces has been introduced with the name AGNEEPATH. The youth selected under the Agneepath scheme will be categorised as Agniveers. With the...

Cut in Fuel Prices, Subsidy on Cylinders: Easing the Burden

With the announcement by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman of the cut in fuel prices, the citizens of India as a whole heaved a sigh of relief. With the price of petrol coming down by ₹ 9.5, diesel getting cheaper by ₹ 7, it is a sharp cut in central excise duty on...

E-commerce complaints tops list in national consumer helpline

Out of the almost 60,000 odd complaints that reach the central government's national consumer helpline (NCH) every month, about 36% is for e-commerce. In 2020, the national helpline received 6, 54,192 grievances of which 28.5% was e-commerce related issues. Banking,...

Is the Budget 2022 Middle Class Friendly?

The Finance Bill 2022 presented by India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1 announced measures for a number of sectors. It aimed at boosting growth amidst growing inflation added with the uncertainties of the Covid-19 pandemic. PM Modi hailed the...

Why India is so cryptic about crypto?

Well, true!  Cryptos have been quite popular in India and now with the imposition of 30% tax on all digital incomes including NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) and cryptos made the investors community lose a heart again. My introduction to crypto happened just a few...

The other Covid Effets

When we just thought we are in the endemic stage and the worst is over, we’ve variant, Omicron now. It has hit the world. India too has reported 21 cases so far including 7 in Jaipur, 1 in Delhi, 11 in Maharashtra and 2 in Karnataka as I write this piece. I’m sure the...

Festivals lighted up consumption. But will it last?

Festivals, especially Deepawali, the festival that Indians observe to celebrate the return of Ram from his 14 years of exile reminded us of the triumph of good over evil. Indians across the regions celebrate the day differently, however, the ethos across the country...

Veganism and India

FSSAI’s recent Vegan logo announcement is a remarkable development in the popularity of vegan foods in India. Going by different reports, it comes to a surprising fact that there was a 47% rise in the vegan related searches in the year 2020. The growing interests for...

What can we learn from Olympians?

What can we learn from Olympians?To be resilient should be the first lesson irrespective of what work you are doing. Irrespective of the time and severity, you will be knocked down at some point and the mental strength to bounce back and punch a blow on the "face of...

Reaching the inaccessible

Atul, a boy in grade 5 used to be a bright and talented student until the pandemic began. Due to the closure of schools, he like many of his friends were unable to continue classes and studies. His mother who used to work in a nearby shoe factory had to give up her...

The Vaccination Mirage

There was a popular tweet doing the rounds lately. It said, India’s vaccination drive is like going for a marriage. At first, the groom wasn’t ready for it, then there was no suitable match and then the groom, because of not getting what he wanted, had to settle with...

Why consumption is good

There is an amazing capacity of consumption. I feel, we consumers are the happiest souls when we consume something of our choice. Be it a slice of pizza, driving a newly launched SUV, consuming content (print and digital both or mere a book). The bottom line is- our...

Stories of hope in pandemic

The deadliest is again on us. It is dangerous than ever before, took lives of thousands already and showing no sign of settling soon. Where there are numerous stories floating every day on nonavailability of many healthcare facilities, medicines, oxygen and doctors;...

Revitalizing India’s Consumer Landscape and Infrastructural Progress: A Glimpse into 2024

Revitalizing India’s Consumer Landscape and Infrastructural Progress: A Glimpse into 2024

Revitalizing India’s Consumer Landscape and Infrastructural Progress: A Glimpse into 2024

As we stand on the cusp of a new year, there is a palpable sense of anticipation in India, fuelled by the promising prospect of upcoming general elections and a notable reduction in inflation. According to the consensus among chief executives of leading companies, this dual catalyst is poised to breathe new life into consumer demand across diverse categories, spanning from groceries to apparel and electronics. The expected resurgence is forecasted to take root from March-April onwards, marking a pivotal turning point in the nation’s economic trajectory.

Consumer goods companies had initially set their sights on a demand recovery in the December quarter. While this projection did not materialize as expected, there is a silver lining in the form of a pronounced halt in the slowdown of consumption. Chief executives are now reporting a noteworthy uptick in the sales of mass-segment products after a hiatus of over three years. This rekindling of consumer interest is viewed as a positive harbinger for the economic landscape.

Shifting our focus to infrastructural advancements, a noteworthy development is underway in Rajasthan’s Didwana district. India is on the brink of achieving a significant milestone with the completion of its first dedicated fast railway trial track by October 2024. This ambitious project, being constructed on the lines of esteemed railway systems in America, Australia, and Germany, aims to enhance the country’s railway system testing facilities. Once completed, this track will position India as the first country with comprehensive testing facilities adhering to international standards for rolling stock.

The high-speed train test track, a product of the Research and Standards Organization (RDSO), spans from Gudha-Thathana Mithri to Nawan railway station in the Jodhpur division of Northwestern Railway. This initiative showcases India’s commitment to advancing its railway technology, with a focus on meeting the technical needs of its growing railway network.

In the financial domain, the Vivaad Se Vishwas scheme has played a pivotal role in settling contractual disputes and claims of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) affected during the Covid period. The Finance Ministry reports that Rs 2,302 crore has been settled so far under this scheme, with over 900 claims worth Rs. 20,000 crores received. Notably, Rs. 1,652 crores worth of claims have already been resolved, underlining the scheme’s efficacy in providing a resolution mechanism for contractual disputes.

However, amid these positive developments, a sobering reality check comes in the form of a recent spike in Covid-19 cases. India has witnessed a multifold increase, with Kerala contributing significantly to the reported cases. This serves as a stark reminder that while strides are being made on various fronts, the battle against the pandemic remains an ongoing challenge.

As we reflect on the progress and challenges facing our nation, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our esteemed readers for their unwavering support. Your engagement, feedback, and ideas have been instrumental in our mission to deliver informative articles. We invite you to continue sharing your thoughts and suggestions at info@consumer-voice.org, as we collectively foster a knowledgeable and empowered community.

Wishing you an enriching and enjoyable reading experience ahead!

Pallabi Boruah

Editor

All Editorials

A Vision Unveiled: India’s Budget 2024

People from all walks of life are enthralled by the yearly budget every year. This year, the government's main focus is on fiscal consolidation, with the goal of bringing the budget deficit down to 5.1% in FY-25—a considerable decrease from 5.8% in FY-24. The...

Empowering Choices: A Path to Sustainable Consumerism

Exploring the wide array of consumer choices reveals both positive and negative trends that significantly impact the market, the environment, and society. On the positive side, there is an encouraging shift towards informed consumerism, with individuals prioritizing...

Legal Landmark, Fintech Diplomacy, and Progress in India

In a ground-breaking legal development, the Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court has made a resounding decision. The Court has nullified the CP Rules, the Selection Committee, and the examination conducted for the selection of Presidents and Members of District and...

A Historic Moment for India and a Global Commitment to Health

History was scripted when The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Eighth Amendment) Bill, 2023, seeking to reserve 33% of seats in Lok Sabha and state Assemblies for women, was passed unanimously by Rajya Sabha, a day after it sailed through Lok Sabha. The passage of...

Addressing India’s Taxpayer Base and Refunds: A Step Forward

India's tax landscape is showing positive signs of growth and participation, as highlighted by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. In the fiscal year 2022-23, 2.24 crore individuals out of the total 7.4 crore taxpayers diligently fulfilled their tax obligations,...

Artificial sweeteners aren’t sweet for your health

Let’s start off with something related to our health, shall we? For those of you who choose diet coke or zero-calorie soda as a means to control your weight, there is some concerning information. The World Health Organization (WHO) recently released new guidelines...

Controversies and many more

A recent video on the super high sugar content of Bournvita by a social media influencer went viral. The Mondelez India-owned health drink company dismissed charges of excessive sugar content, calling the video "unscientific" and accusing it of "distorting facts and...

Is India Growing?

The Union Health Ministry is preparing to alter the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act, a significant step that will require OTT (over-the-top) platforms or streaming services to display health warnings during smoking scenes in motion pictures and Web series...

 ‘India: Growing by leaps and bounds’.

Let's start off on a positive note, shall we? An International Monetary Fund (IMF) official predicted that India would contribute 15% to world growth in 2023. In the approaching year, it is anticipated that China and India will each contribute 50% to global growth...

Some Exciting News

Let’s start off with something encouraging, shall we? According to data made public by the Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation (MoSPI), India's retail inflation rate reduced slightly from the previous month and continued to fall below the Reserve...

A New India

Let’s start off with some good news, shall we? According to the most recent monthly Refinitiv-Ipsos Primary Consumer Sentiment Index (PCSI) report, consumer sentiment among urban Indians has improved and increased by 1.1 percentage points in December 2022. Amit...

Changing demographics in India

Let’s start off with some good news, shall we? According to the trade group Consumer Electronics and Appliances Manufacturers Association (CEAMA), the Indian Appliances and Consumer Electronics (ACE) market is anticipated to nearly double over the next three years,...

Dynamic subtle changes in India

The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has changed the country's payment system, thereby promoting economic growth. Since UPI was first launched, life has become easier. UPI is currently accepted everywhere, including by taxi drivers, valet parking services, malls, toll...

Positive Economic Outlook

23 per cent of the world's milk production is contributed by the dairy sector of India. It ranks first across the globe. But the rising cases of the Lumpy Skin Disease have thrown the nation out of gear. The lumpy skin disease is a viral infection commonly occurring...

Plastic Straw Ban On: Fight against Pollution

The Central Government has banned 19 single-use plastic items from July 1, including straws. This ban has led to companies including Dabur India Ltd. and Parle Agro Pvt, racing to replace them with imported paper versions. Of the 380 million tons of plastic produced...

Agneepath and Agniveer: In a Nutshell

In a historic decision by the Union Cabinet, an attractive recruitment scheme for Indian youth to serve in the Armed Forces has been introduced with the name AGNEEPATH. The youth selected under the Agneepath scheme will be categorised as Agniveers. With the...

Cut in Fuel Prices, Subsidy on Cylinders: Easing the Burden

With the announcement by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman of the cut in fuel prices, the citizens of India as a whole heaved a sigh of relief. With the price of petrol coming down by ₹ 9.5, diesel getting cheaper by ₹ 7, it is a sharp cut in central excise duty on...

E-commerce complaints tops list in national consumer helpline

Out of the almost 60,000 odd complaints that reach the central government's national consumer helpline (NCH) every month, about 36% is for e-commerce. In 2020, the national helpline received 6, 54,192 grievances of which 28.5% was e-commerce related issues. Banking,...

Is the Budget 2022 Middle Class Friendly?

The Finance Bill 2022 presented by India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1 announced measures for a number of sectors. It aimed at boosting growth amidst growing inflation added with the uncertainties of the Covid-19 pandemic. PM Modi hailed the...

Why India is so cryptic about crypto?

Well, true!  Cryptos have been quite popular in India and now with the imposition of 30% tax on all digital incomes including NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) and cryptos made the investors community lose a heart again. My introduction to crypto happened just a few...

The other Covid Effets

When we just thought we are in the endemic stage and the worst is over, we’ve variant, Omicron now. It has hit the world. India too has reported 21 cases so far including 7 in Jaipur, 1 in Delhi, 11 in Maharashtra and 2 in Karnataka as I write this piece. I’m sure the...

Festivals lighted up consumption. But will it last?

Festivals, especially Deepawali, the festival that Indians observe to celebrate the return of Ram from his 14 years of exile reminded us of the triumph of good over evil. Indians across the regions celebrate the day differently, however, the ethos across the country...

Veganism and India

FSSAI’s recent Vegan logo announcement is a remarkable development in the popularity of vegan foods in India. Going by different reports, it comes to a surprising fact that there was a 47% rise in the vegan related searches in the year 2020. The growing interests for...

What can we learn from Olympians?

What can we learn from Olympians?To be resilient should be the first lesson irrespective of what work you are doing. Irrespective of the time and severity, you will be knocked down at some point and the mental strength to bounce back and punch a blow on the "face of...

Reaching the inaccessible

Atul, a boy in grade 5 used to be a bright and talented student until the pandemic began. Due to the closure of schools, he like many of his friends were unable to continue classes and studies. His mother who used to work in a nearby shoe factory had to give up her...

The Vaccination Mirage

There was a popular tweet doing the rounds lately. It said, India’s vaccination drive is like going for a marriage. At first, the groom wasn’t ready for it, then there was no suitable match and then the groom, because of not getting what he wanted, had to settle with...

Why consumption is good

There is an amazing capacity of consumption. I feel, we consumers are the happiest souls when we consume something of our choice. Be it a slice of pizza, driving a newly launched SUV, consuming content (print and digital both or mere a book). The bottom line is- our...

Stories of hope in pandemic

The deadliest is again on us. It is dangerous than ever before, took lives of thousands already and showing no sign of settling soon. Where there are numerous stories floating every day on nonavailability of many healthcare facilities, medicines, oxygen and doctors;...

India’s Strategic Outlook: A Beacon in Renewable Energy, AI, Healthcare, and Inclusive Finance

India’s Strategic Outlook: A Beacon in Renewable Energy, AI, Healthcare, and Inclusive Finance

India’s Strategic Outlook: A Beacon in Renewable Energy, AI, Healthcare, and Inclusive Finance

In a recent statement, N. Chandrasekaran, the executive chairman of Tata Sons, has illuminated India’s pivotal role in the global transition to renewable energy. He underscored India’s leadership in investing in cutting-edge energies such as solar, hydrogen, and wind. Unlike other nations grappling with the daunting task of replacing coal, India perceives this shift as an economic boon and a catalyst for growth.

Delving into artificial intelligence (AI), Chandrasekaran outlined the prerequisites for widespread adoption, citing the convergence of factors such as processing power, cloud computing, storage, and mobile networks. Observing the evolution from predictive AI to generic AI, he predicted a future pivot towards behavioural AI. Emphasizing India’s strengths in digital infrastructure and a youthful talent pool, he projected India’s potential as a key player in the global supply chain across diverse sectors.

Transitioning to healthcare, a Knight Frank report disclosed a glaring deficit of two billion square feet in healthcare real estate in India. With a current bed-to-population ratio of 1.3 beds per 1,000 people, the report underscored the urgent need for healthcare sector expansion. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated this demand, exposing gaps in infrastructure and service delivery. The report signals a substantial opportunity for public and private entities to invest in and expand their presence in India’s burgeoning healthcare industry.

Providing financial insights, Vivek Joshi, the financial services secretary, shared that over ₹95,000 crore has been disbursed to more than 50 lakh street vendors under the Prime Minister’s Street Vendor’s AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) scheme. Launched in June 2020, this micro-credit scheme has sanctioned 72.44 lakh loans to street vendors, offering collateral-free working capital loans in tranches up to ₹50,000. Joshi urged public sector banks to expedite disbursements, highlighting the scheme’s pivotal role in supporting street vendors during challenging times.

To sum up, India’s strategic positioning in energy transition, unwavering commitment to electric vehicles, strides in artificial intelligence, burgeoning opportunities in healthcare, and inclusive financial schemes showcase the nation’s resilience and determination to thrive in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

We express profound gratitude to our esteemed readers for their unwavering support, which has been instrumental in delivering informative articles. We encourage continued engagement, feedback sharing, and eagerly anticipate your ideas and suggestions at info@consumer-voice.org. Let us collaboratively foster a knowledgeable and empowered community.

Wishing you an enjoyable reading experience ahead!

Pallabi Boruah

Editor

All Editorials

A Vision Unveiled: India’s Budget 2024

People from all walks of life are enthralled by the yearly budget every year. This year, the government's main focus is on fiscal consolidation, with the goal of bringing the budget deficit down to 5.1% in FY-25—a considerable decrease from 5.8% in FY-24. The...

Empowering Choices: A Path to Sustainable Consumerism

Exploring the wide array of consumer choices reveals both positive and negative trends that significantly impact the market, the environment, and society. On the positive side, there is an encouraging shift towards informed consumerism, with individuals prioritizing...

Legal Landmark, Fintech Diplomacy, and Progress in India

In a ground-breaking legal development, the Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court has made a resounding decision. The Court has nullified the CP Rules, the Selection Committee, and the examination conducted for the selection of Presidents and Members of District and...

A Historic Moment for India and a Global Commitment to Health

History was scripted when The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Eighth Amendment) Bill, 2023, seeking to reserve 33% of seats in Lok Sabha and state Assemblies for women, was passed unanimously by Rajya Sabha, a day after it sailed through Lok Sabha. The passage of...

Addressing India’s Taxpayer Base and Refunds: A Step Forward

India's tax landscape is showing positive signs of growth and participation, as highlighted by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. In the fiscal year 2022-23, 2.24 crore individuals out of the total 7.4 crore taxpayers diligently fulfilled their tax obligations,...

Artificial sweeteners aren’t sweet for your health

Let’s start off with something related to our health, shall we? For those of you who choose diet coke or zero-calorie soda as a means to control your weight, there is some concerning information. The World Health Organization (WHO) recently released new guidelines...

Controversies and many more

A recent video on the super high sugar content of Bournvita by a social media influencer went viral. The Mondelez India-owned health drink company dismissed charges of excessive sugar content, calling the video "unscientific" and accusing it of "distorting facts and...

Is India Growing?

The Union Health Ministry is preparing to alter the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act, a significant step that will require OTT (over-the-top) platforms or streaming services to display health warnings during smoking scenes in motion pictures and Web series...

 ‘India: Growing by leaps and bounds’.

Let's start off on a positive note, shall we? An International Monetary Fund (IMF) official predicted that India would contribute 15% to world growth in 2023. In the approaching year, it is anticipated that China and India will each contribute 50% to global growth...

Some Exciting News

Let’s start off with something encouraging, shall we? According to data made public by the Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation (MoSPI), India's retail inflation rate reduced slightly from the previous month and continued to fall below the Reserve...

A New India

Let’s start off with some good news, shall we? According to the most recent monthly Refinitiv-Ipsos Primary Consumer Sentiment Index (PCSI) report, consumer sentiment among urban Indians has improved and increased by 1.1 percentage points in December 2022. Amit...

Changing demographics in India

Let’s start off with some good news, shall we? According to the trade group Consumer Electronics and Appliances Manufacturers Association (CEAMA), the Indian Appliances and Consumer Electronics (ACE) market is anticipated to nearly double over the next three years,...

Dynamic subtle changes in India

The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has changed the country's payment system, thereby promoting economic growth. Since UPI was first launched, life has become easier. UPI is currently accepted everywhere, including by taxi drivers, valet parking services, malls, toll...

Positive Economic Outlook

23 per cent of the world's milk production is contributed by the dairy sector of India. It ranks first across the globe. But the rising cases of the Lumpy Skin Disease have thrown the nation out of gear. The lumpy skin disease is a viral infection commonly occurring...

Plastic Straw Ban On: Fight against Pollution

The Central Government has banned 19 single-use plastic items from July 1, including straws. This ban has led to companies including Dabur India Ltd. and Parle Agro Pvt, racing to replace them with imported paper versions. Of the 380 million tons of plastic produced...

Agneepath and Agniveer: In a Nutshell

In a historic decision by the Union Cabinet, an attractive recruitment scheme for Indian youth to serve in the Armed Forces has been introduced with the name AGNEEPATH. The youth selected under the Agneepath scheme will be categorised as Agniveers. With the...

Cut in Fuel Prices, Subsidy on Cylinders: Easing the Burden

With the announcement by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman of the cut in fuel prices, the citizens of India as a whole heaved a sigh of relief. With the price of petrol coming down by ₹ 9.5, diesel getting cheaper by ₹ 7, it is a sharp cut in central excise duty on...

E-commerce complaints tops list in national consumer helpline

Out of the almost 60,000 odd complaints that reach the central government's national consumer helpline (NCH) every month, about 36% is for e-commerce. In 2020, the national helpline received 6, 54,192 grievances of which 28.5% was e-commerce related issues. Banking,...

Is the Budget 2022 Middle Class Friendly?

The Finance Bill 2022 presented by India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1 announced measures for a number of sectors. It aimed at boosting growth amidst growing inflation added with the uncertainties of the Covid-19 pandemic. PM Modi hailed the...

Why India is so cryptic about crypto?

Well, true!  Cryptos have been quite popular in India and now with the imposition of 30% tax on all digital incomes including NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) and cryptos made the investors community lose a heart again. My introduction to crypto happened just a few...

The other Covid Effets

When we just thought we are in the endemic stage and the worst is over, we’ve variant, Omicron now. It has hit the world. India too has reported 21 cases so far including 7 in Jaipur, 1 in Delhi, 11 in Maharashtra and 2 in Karnataka as I write this piece. I’m sure the...

Festivals lighted up consumption. But will it last?

Festivals, especially Deepawali, the festival that Indians observe to celebrate the return of Ram from his 14 years of exile reminded us of the triumph of good over evil. Indians across the regions celebrate the day differently, however, the ethos across the country...

Veganism and India

FSSAI’s recent Vegan logo announcement is a remarkable development in the popularity of vegan foods in India. Going by different reports, it comes to a surprising fact that there was a 47% rise in the vegan related searches in the year 2020. The growing interests for...

What can we learn from Olympians?

What can we learn from Olympians?To be resilient should be the first lesson irrespective of what work you are doing. Irrespective of the time and severity, you will be knocked down at some point and the mental strength to bounce back and punch a blow on the "face of...

Reaching the inaccessible

Atul, a boy in grade 5 used to be a bright and talented student until the pandemic began. Due to the closure of schools, he like many of his friends were unable to continue classes and studies. His mother who used to work in a nearby shoe factory had to give up her...

The Vaccination Mirage

There was a popular tweet doing the rounds lately. It said, India’s vaccination drive is like going for a marriage. At first, the groom wasn’t ready for it, then there was no suitable match and then the groom, because of not getting what he wanted, had to settle with...

Why consumption is good

There is an amazing capacity of consumption. I feel, we consumers are the happiest souls when we consume something of our choice. Be it a slice of pizza, driving a newly launched SUV, consuming content (print and digital both or mere a book). The bottom line is- our...

Stories of hope in pandemic

The deadliest is again on us. It is dangerous than ever before, took lives of thousands already and showing no sign of settling soon. Where there are numerous stories floating every day on nonavailability of many healthcare facilities, medicines, oxygen and doctors;...

Enquire Now

    X
    Enquire Now