MBB University organized an awareness program titled “An Awareness Program on Consumer Rights” under the initiative of its Consumer Club, supported by the NSS Unit and the Red Ribbon Club. The program was inaugurated by Minister of Food, Consumer Affairs, and Public Distribution Sushanta Chowdhury. Judge of the High Court of Tripura and Chairman of the Tripura State Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission Justice Arindam Lodh attended the occasion as the Chief Guest.
In his inaugural address, Sushanta Chowdhury underscored the critical role of consumer awareness in ensuring economic prosperity. “In the digital age, where transactions increasingly occur without face-to-face interactions, consumer protection has become paramount,” he said. He highlighted government initiatives to curb fraudulent practices like the sale of counterfeit and substandard products and called on students to play a proactive role in spreading consumer awareness.
Justice Arindam Lodh discussed the importance of consumer protection laws and their effective implementation. “Ignorance of consumer rights often leads to exploitation,” he said, urging educational institutions to spearhead campaigns like ‘Jago Grahak Jago’ to instill awareness across all societal strata. He also praised the active role of the Tripura State Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission in addressing consumer grievances.
Dr. Sumanta Chakraborty, Registrar of MBB University, delivered the welcome address, emphasizing the university’s commitment to the holistic development of students and society. He highlighted the critical link between consumer awareness and environmental protection, drawing attention to issues such as plastic pollution and health hazards caused by unauthorized additives in food.
Director of Food, Consumer Affairs, and Public Distribution Sumit Lodh addressed the audience on the challenges faced by consumers due to legal complexities and a lack of awareness. He lauded the digitization of consumer grievance processes, which now allow complaints to be filed and hearings to be attended online, making justice more accessible.
Director of Higher Education, Government of Tripura Animesh Debbarma underlined the importance of sustained awareness initiatives, urging the Consumer Club to organize regular programs. Presiding over the event, VC Prof Satyadeo Poddar spoke about the university’s vision of shaping students into not just educated individuals but morally conscious citizens
The program concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Debdutta Adak, Assistant Professor.
