YINGKIONG, Jan 29: The Department of Legal Metrology and Consumer Affairs (LMCA), GoAP in collaboration with the Upper Siang District Administration conducted a one-day consumer awareness programme themed ‘Empowering Consumers, Enriching Lives’ at the multipurpose hall here today.
Secretary LMCA Mige Kamki, in his address, highlighted the importance of responsible consumer behaviour, health and hygiene, and consumer awareness. He exhorted the participating school children to internalize the knowledge gained during the programme, stating that such awareness would remain with them for life and help them grow into committed and responsible consumers aware of their rights and duties.
Calling the attention of shopkeepers and business communities, the Secretary emphasized that increased consumer awareness would improve the quality of goods in local markets. He stressed that awareness about health and hygiene is the foundation of a healthy society. He also underlined the need to activate District Consumer Dispute Redressal Forum wherever they exist and to establish them in districts where they are yet to be set up.
During the visit, the secretary along with other officials inspected the Yingkiong Consumer Court and advised initiating its functioning at the earliest.
LM CA Controller Minte Siga briefed the participants on the department’s activities and achievements, highlighting its role in empowering consumers. He stated that the department functions as a quasi-judicial and compensatory authority for consumer dispute redressal and enforcement of standards related to weights and measures. He reiterated that consumer awareness is the key to preventing fraudulent practices.
ADC Yingkiong Naatek Nonaang suggested that such awareness programmes should also be organized in market areas and public spaces to ensure wider public participation and outreach.
Earlier, ACLM Pasighat Techi Bida shared real-life consumer experiences and appealed to the public to remain vigilant.
ACLM (HQs) Taba Tabin elaborated on the theme of the programme and educated participants on precautionary measures while purchasing fuel, LPG, and other essential commodities.
In a highlight of the event, a live demonstration on fraudulent practices and product imitation cases was conducted by Rakesh Tekseng, Inspector LMCA and Sangio Toru, PA, LM Pasighat. They demonstrated common malpractices related to weights and measures and explained how imitation products used in daily life can pose serious health risks.
Among others, the programme was attended by Upper Siang SP Token Saring, HoDs, government officials, shopkeepers, school children, and representatives from community based organizations. (DIPRO)