In a significant address at the 44th ISO COPOLCO Plenary in New Delhi, Union Minister Piyush Goyal, responsible for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Commerce and Industry, and Textiles, emphasized the critical role of quality in meeting the demands of today’s customers. He stated that quality is of utmost importance to consumers and can significantly influence India’s future as a nation.
Goyal underscored the dependence of consumer rights, safety, and satisfaction on quality, particularly in our highly globalized and technology-driven world. He emphasized that meeting consumers’ intrinsic need for high-quality goods and services is paramount to achieving their satisfaction.
The Minister stressed that consumer protection is an integral part of governance, rooted in ancient texts such as Atharvaveda and Arthashastra. The current government aims to revive this consciousness and recognizes the vital role consumers play in the economy. Efforts are being made to establish a responsive administration that focuses on consumer prosperity and protection.
Goyal highlighted the importance of affordability, practicality, and complementarity in shaping consumer protection policies. He expressed his belief that the Department of Consumer Affairs and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) can play a transformative role in propelling India to greater heights.
Reflecting on the government’s nine-year journey, Goyal emphasized the significance of governance quality. He emphasized that the growth of India’s businesses, international trade, and ability to attract investments depends on ensuring a “Happy and Satisfied Consumer.” The Minister quoted Mahatma Gandhi, recognizing the customer as the most important visitor, and urged businesses to align themselves with the changing demands and expectations of customers.
Goyal proudly stated that India is currently the fifth largest economy globally and is poised to become the third largest in the coming years. He highlighted India’s abundant talent pool and skills as strengths and credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for making India a recognized “bright spot” globally. Goyal noted that countries worldwide and multilateral institutions are eager to engage in trade with India.
The 44th ISO COPOLCO Plenary was inaugurated by Minister Piyush Goyal, alongside the presence of other dignitaries including Union Minister Ashwini Kumar Choubey, Union Minister Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti, ISO Secretary General Sergio Mujica, Consumer Affairs Secretary Rohit Kumar Singh, COPOLCO Chair Sadie Dainton, and senior officials from the Department of Consumer Affairs and BIS.