NIDHI KHARE
Counterfeit goods, expiry tampering a 'very huge problem', says Consumer Affairs Secretary
Counterfeit products and altered expiry dates present a significant challenge. Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare highlighted the ongoing battle against fake goods. E-commerce platforms are actively removing counterfeit listings. Sophisticated fakes are difficult to detect. Consumers must remain vigilant and report suspicious products. The government is also addressing dark patterns and reforming legal metrology.
7 groups of secretaries gear up to deal with Gulf crisis
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced seven empowered groups to address the long-term impacts of the West Asia war, urging states to collaborate in a 'Team India' approach. He emphasized dialogue and diplomacy for peace, stressing self-reliance and preparedness for potential supply chain disruptions and energy crises.
LPG cylinder supply: Centre directs states to curb hoarding, prevent panic
In light of recent concerns, the government has called on state officials to regulate the distribution of LPG cylinders and avert any public panic. Authorities must take immediate action against hoarding and black market activities. Rest assured, supplies of domestic LPG and natural gas remain stable, with restrictions applicable only to commercial use.
Consumer Affairs Ministry receives around 100 complaints over IndiGo ticket cancellations
The consumer affairs ministry has received about 100 complaints regarding IndiGo ticket cancellations and refunds. These complaints have been sent to the aviation regulator for action. IndiGo faced significant flight cancellations in December 2025 due to pilot duty norm implementation. This led to thousands of stranded passengers. The civil aviation ministry reduced IndiGo's flight schedule and imposed airfare caps.
Govt flags ‘dark patterns’ in GST pricing; 3,000 consumer complaints logged
The National Consumer Helpline has received 3,000 GST-related complaints since tax reductions, which are being forwarded to CBIC for action. The Consumer Affairs Ministry is actively monitoring misleading discount practices to ensure consumers receive the benefits of reduced GST rates, deploying AI and chatbot technology to enhance complaint analysis.
MSMEs need to become more proactive: Consumer affairs secretary
Addressing a conference here, Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare noted that India is poised to become the third largest economy in the world, and that the MSMEs (micro, small and medium enterprises) will have a major role to play in achieving this.
MSMEs must comply with quality standards, be more responsive: Consumer Affairs Secretary
The secretary said MSMEs need to be more proactive in sharing their problems and asked the industry to demand new standards as well as participate in formulation of these quality norms.
India ready to take on greater role in shaping global standards on AI: Consumer Affairs secretary
Nidhi Khare further highlighted the importance of aligning national AI strategies with global standards that are inclusive, context-aware, and adaptable to local needs.
Govt setting up ecosystem to resolve consumer complaints at pre-litigation stage: Consumer Affairs Secretary
The government is developing a system to address consumer complaints pre-litigation, featuring a hassle-free, rapid platform via the National Consumer Helpline (NCH). Enhanced with AI, NCH has significantly increased its call-handling capability, with plans to resolve complaints within seven days. The goal is to avoid litigation by resolving issues at an early stage, says Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare.
Nidhi Khare given additional charge of MNRE
The appointment comes after Prashant Kumar Singh, secretary MNRE, was repatriated to Manipur to serve as the chief secretary. Singh had taken charge as secretary MNRE in October. Khare will be overlooking India's ambitious green energy targets and missions.
Govt to issue guidelines on pesky calls next month: Consumer Affairs Sec
The consumer affairs ministry will issue guidelines next month to address unsolicited commercial communications or pesky calls, aligning with upcoming Trai regulations. The draft, prepared in consultation with stakeholders, focuses on business entities' roles. Trai will also introduce tougher norms to protect consumers following increased complaints.
Govt considering mandatory hallmarking for gold bullion
The Indian government is considering mandatory hallmarking for gold bullion, following the successful implementation for jewelry. This aims to ensure quality throughout the gold supply chain, benefiting both jewelers and consumers. The government is also developing regulations for lab-grown diamonds and promoting the gems and jewelry sector, projected to reach $134 billion by 2030.
Government taking steps to check onion prices to Rs 35 a kg: Secretary Consumer Affairs
Concerned by a sharp rise in onion prices driving overall inflation, the Indian government is taking swift action. Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare highlighted the government's efforts to stabilize retail prices, including the introduction of 'Kanda Express' trains to transport onions to high-demand areas. These measures aim to bring retail onion prices down to around Rs. 35 per kilogram.
Relief on the way! Tomato prices in Delhi may drop as Maharashtra supply increases
Tomato prices in Delhi-NCR have exceeded Rs 100 per kg due to supply disruptions from Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. The government is intervening through the NCCF to sell tomatoes at Rs 65 per kg and anticipates stabilization as supplies from Maharashtra increase.
Govt examining product disclosures by quick commerce firms
The government is scrutinizing whether quick commerce companies are complying with the Legal Metrology Act, which mandates key disclosures on packaged products. Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare stated potential regulatory action could be taken against non-compliant firms. The investigation focuses on information such as price, expiration date, and manufacturer details amid the rise of ultra-fast grocery delivery services in India.
Govt steps up buffer stock sale to control onion prices after export duty removal
The government is taking steps to control onion prices by increasing the sale of buffer stock in wholesale markets. Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare announced plans to sell onions at a subsidised rate of Rs 35 per kg nationwide, especially in cities where prices are high. The government is optimistic about the upcoming kharif onion crop.
Clearly inform customers about starting date of warranty period: CCPA to electronic appliance makers
CCPA Chief Commissioner Nidhi Khare urges electronic appliance manufacturers to clarify warranty start date and address consumer grievances promptly.
States asked to enforce stock disclosures of pulses
Centre mandates states to disclose weekly pulses stocks. Khare oversees compliance and import discussions. States monitor yellow peas imports from December 8 to June 30 for market availability augmentation.
CCPA gets several consumer complaints against cab aggregators; calls meeting next week
Citing a few examples, Khare said the regulator has received many complaints of alleged unfair trade practices, including cab drivers forcing consumers to cancel a trip and bear a penalty as the drivers do not want to accept the ride for whatever reason.
Load More
