स्वयंसेवी संस्थांच्या राष्ट्रीय परिषदेच्या निमित्ताने शनिवार दि.१२ डिसें.व रविवार दि.१३ डिसें. या दिवशी रामभाऊ म्हाळगी प्रबोधिनी, केशवसृष्टी, उत्तन येथे "कार्यकर्ता निर्माण" या विषयावर एक शिबीर आयोजित करण्यात आले होते.
या शिबिराला मुंबई ग्राहक पंचायतीच्यावतीने खालील ४ प्रतिनिधी उपस्थित होते.
श्रीम.ज्योती वैद्य.(दादर-माहीम-वांद्रे विभाग)
श्रीम.रंजना सावंत.(अंधेरी-जोगेश्वरी विभाग)
श्रीम.मानसी नाईक.(विरार विभाग)
श्रीम.अनुराधा चिमडे.(कांदिवली विभाग)
शिबीर अत्यंत उपयुक्त,माहितीपूर्ण आणि प्रेरणादायी होते.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Thursday, December 24, 2009
बदलती जीवनशैली आणि ग्राहक चळवळ.
(आधार:महाराष्ट्र टाइम्स दि.२४/१२/२००९)
डॉ. रामदास गुजराथी
अध्यक्ष, मुंबई ग्राहक पंचायत
(सातत्याने विकसित होत जाणारी नवी खचिर्क जीवनशैली आपल्या देशातील नीतिमूल्यांवर घाव घालणारी आहे. कारण त्यासाठी प्रत्यक्ष उत्पन्नापेक्षा अधिक उत्पन्नाचे स्रोत निर्माण करावे लागतात आणि अशा स्रोतांच्या शोधासाठी भ्रष्टाचाराच्या मार्गांचा कळत न कळत अवलंब करावा लागतो. अशी माणसं ग्राहक चळवळीला कोणता आधार देणार? आजच्या भारतीय ग्राहक दिनानिमित्त या आव्हानाचा परामर्श... )
जागतिकीकरणाच्या लाटेने केवळ आपल्या अर्थव्यवस्थेवरच परिणाम केला नसून आपल्या वैयक्तिक आणि सामाजिक जीवनावर देखील दूरगामी परिणाम केला आहे. आज आपण 'भारतीय नागरिक' म्हणून नव्हे तर 'जागतिक नागरिक' म्हणून जीवन जगणे अधिक पसंत करू लागलो आहोत. परिणामी आपल्या जीवनशैलीत आमूलाग्र बदल झालेला दिसून येतो. नाविन्याची ओढ एकसारखी वाढत आहे.
आपली जीवनशैली बदलली म्हणजे नेमके काय घडले? या प्रश्नाचे उत्तर विस्ताराने देता येईल. परंतु काही वैशिष्ट्यपूर्ण बदलांचाच येथे मी विचार करणार आहे. ग्राहक चळवळीतील एक कार्यकर्ता म्हणून हे बदल मला प्रकर्षाने जाणवतात आणि भिववितात देखील.
गेल्या २०-२५ वर्षांत 'आहेरे' (Haves) आणि 'नाहीरे' (Have nots) मधील अंतर भरमसाठ वाढले आहे. तंत्रज्ञानाधिष्ठित समाजात ज्ञानाचे महत्त्व वाढल्यामुळे 'आहेरे' वर्गाच्या उत्पन्नात भरमसाठ वाढ झाली असून त्यांच्याकडे आवश्यकतेपेक्षा अधिक पैसा येत आहे. आज आपण आपल्या देशात तीन लाखांपासून ६८-७० लाखांच्या दरवषीर्च्या पॅकेजेसची भाषा बोलू लागलो आहोत. काही हजारांत उत्पन्न कमावले, त्यांच्या घरात आता लाखाने उत्पन्न येऊ लागले. स्वाभाविकपणे या लोकांची जीवन जगण्यासंबंधीची 'अभिप्सा' बदलली. त्यांना सर्व उत्तम दर्जाच्या आणि आकर्षक अशा गोष्टींचे आकर्षण वाटू लागले. महागड्या गोष्टींकडे कल वाढला. जगाला भेडसावणाऱ्या महागाईविषयी त्यांची तक्रार नाही. कारण त्यांना अधिक खर्च करणे शक्य आहे. म्हणून ते साध्या दुकानात न जाता मॉल्सच्या वाटेने जाऊ लागले आहेत. या ग्राहकवर्गाने 'महागड्या जीवनशैलीचा' मनापासून स्वीकार केलेला दिसून येतो. क्वालिटी महत्त्वाची, किंमत दुय्यम.
अलीकडच्या आधुनिक कुटुंबात दोन गोष्टींचा शिरकाव झालेला दिसून येतो. त्या म्हणजे, प्रत्येक गोष्टीसाठी 'होम डिलिव्हरी' आणि 'किचनलेस फॅमिली'. या दोन्ही गोष्टी बदलत्या जीवनशैलीची खास वैशिष्ट्ये आहेत. किराणा माल मागवायचाय? करा दुकानदाराला फोन आणि द्या ऑर्डर. या फोनवरील मागणीला पूर्ण करणारी 'होम डिलिव्हरी' आजची जीवनशैली बनू पाहत आहे.
त्याचवेळी मुंबई-पुणे-अहमदाबाद अशा काही शहरांत 'किचनलेस होम' ही संकल्पना रूढ होत असताना दिसत आहे. तरुण जोडप्यांनी तिचा अवलंब करायला सुरुवात केली आहे. सकाळी ८ ते रात्री १० पर्यंत घराबाहेर असलेल्या या तरुण जोडप्यांना 'किचन'ची आवश्यकताच भासत नाही. सकाळचा चहा-नास्ता बाहेर. दुपारचे जेवण ऑफिसच्या कँटिनमध्ये आणि रात्रीचे घरी परतताना चांगल्या हॉटेलमध्ये. ही जीवनशैली विकसित होत गेल्यावर घर हे विश्रामगृह बनेल आणि 'आमच्या घरी जेवायला या' या वाक्याची सामाजिक जीवनातून हकालपट्टी होईल.
यातूनच 'युज अँड थ्रो कल्चर' (वापरा आणि फेका संस्कृती) उभे राहत असल्याचे दिसून येते. कोणतीही वस्तू फार काळ वापरायची नाही किंवा घरात ठेवायची नाही. वस्तू वापरायची आणि तिची अल्पकाळातच विल्हेवाट लावायची हे या कल्चरचे वैशिष्ट्य. माझ्या आईचे लग्न १९व्या वर्षी झाले, पण वयाच्या ५०व्या वर्षापर्यंत लग्नातील शालू तिच्याजवळ होता. तिला त्याचा अभिमानही वाटे. पण आता कोणतीही वस्तू लवकर 'रिप्लेस' करण्याची प्रवृत्ती वाढत आहे.
२०-२५ वर्षांपूवीर् प्रत्येक घरात टेलिफोन होता अशी स्थिती नव्हती. पण कम्युनिकेशन टेक्नॉलॉजीने क्रांती घडवून आणली असून आज 'मोबाईल' हे एक खेळणे झाल्यासारखे वाटते. माध्यमिक शाळेत जाणाऱ्या मुलामुलींपासून वयाची पंचाहत्तरी पूर्ण केलेल्या व्यक्तीच्या हाती मोबाईल दिसून येतो. मोबाईलशिवाय अनेकांचे काम अडते. इतका मोबाईल आपल्या आजच्या जीवनात अविभाज्य झाला आहे. नाशिकला ११० मोबाईल टॉवर्सना सील ठोकले, तर लाखाच्यावर मोबाईल बंद पडले. सर्व ग्राहक जाहीर तक्रार करू लागले. ही स्थिती सर्व भारतभर आहे.
अशा या बदलत्या जीवनशैलीचा देशातील ग्राहक चळवळीवर काय परिणाम होणार हा खरा चिंतेचा प्रश्न आहे. उपभोगप्रधान समाजातील ग्राहक देशातील ग्राहक चळवळीला उपयुक्त ठरतील का, हा खरा सवाल आहे. अशा उच्चभ्रू समाजातील लोकांना ग्राहक चळवळीची आवश्यकता वाटेल का? असे ग्राहक सहजरीत्या संघटित होतील का? पैशाच्या जोरावर ते सर्व प्रकारचे सुख उपभोगू शकतात. त्यांना ग्राहक चळवळ आवश्यक वाटेल का? अशा ग्राहकांचे प्रश्न सामान्य ग्राहकांच्या, गरीब ग्राहकांच्या प्रश्नांपेक्षा भिन्न असणार यात शंका नाही. इंटरनेटच्या जमान्यात वावरणारे हे सुशिक्षित आणि उच्च मध्यम वर्गातील ग्राहक एकत्र येऊन ग्राहक चळवळ समर्थ करण्यास किती उपयुक्त ठरतील, याविषयी मी साशंक आहे. म्हणून इंटरनेटच्या युगातील ग्राहक चळवळीसंबंधी गंभीरपणे विचार करण्याची आवश्यकता ग्राहक संघटनांपुढे निर्माण झाली आहे.
आजच्या तरुण ग्राहकांच्या उपभोगविषयक सवयी अत्यंत 'खचिर्क' होत चालल्या आहेत. याचाच अर्थ त्यांच्याकडून टिकावू (sustainable) जीवनशैलीचा अव्हेर होत आहे. भारतीय समाजात टिकावू जीवनपद्धतीचा शतकानुशतके अवलंब केला गेला पण गेल्या २०-२५ वर्षांत विचित्र चित्र निर्माण होत असल्याचे दिसते. उपभोगावर संयम ठेवणे आवश्यक आहे याची जाणीव करून द्यायला हवी आहे, कारण कर्ज काढून उपभोग घेण्याची वृत्ती वाढत आहे. पूवीर्चा अशिक्षित ग्राहक कर्ज काढून थाटात मुलीचे लग्न करायचा आणि व्यापारी आणि सावकाराकडून लुबाडला जायचा. तशीच परिस्थिती या सुशिक्षित केडिट कार्ड अथवा डेबिट कार्ड धारकांची होत आहे. ग्राहक चळवळीपुढे हे एक वेगळेच आव्हान आहे.
सातत्याने विकसित होत जाणारी ही नवी जीवनशैली आपल्या देशातील नीतिमूल्यांवर घाव घालणारी आहे. कारण खचिर्क जीवनशैली जगण्यासाठी प्रत्यक्ष उत्पन्नापेक्षा अधिक उत्पन्नाचे सोत निर्माण करावे लागतात आणि अशा सोतांच्या शोधासाठी भ्रष्टाचाराच्या मार्गावर कळत न कळत चालत जावे लागते. नंतर तो मार्ग स्वीकारला जातो. आज अशी माणसे या नवीन जीवनशैलीचा यथेच्छ उपभोग घेताना दिसत आहेत. अशी माणसं ग्राहक चळवळीला कोणता आधार देणार? आणि ग्राहक चळवळ 'अशा' ग्राहकांच्या आधारावर का चालवायची याचाही विचार करावा लागणार.
पुढील दहा वर्षांत जीवनशैली अशीच वेगाने बदलत गेली तर ग्राहक चळवळ ही 'कागदावरील चळवळ' या स्वरूपात राहील किंवा समाजातील केवळ उपेक्षित ग्राहकांसाठीच राबविली जाईल आणि शेवटी इतर चळवळींचे जे झाले, तेच ग्राहक चळवळीचेही होईल. भक्कम आधाराशिवाय कोणतीच चळवळ उभी राहू शकत नाही आणि तिची वाढही होऊ शकत नाही. अशा भक्कम आधाराचा शोध घेण्याचे आव्हानात्मक काम ग्राहक संघटनांना या पुढील काळात करावे लागणार आहे.
डॉ. रामदास गुजराथी
अध्यक्ष, मुंबई ग्राहक पंचायत
(सातत्याने विकसित होत जाणारी नवी खचिर्क जीवनशैली आपल्या देशातील नीतिमूल्यांवर घाव घालणारी आहे. कारण त्यासाठी प्रत्यक्ष उत्पन्नापेक्षा अधिक उत्पन्नाचे स्रोत निर्माण करावे लागतात आणि अशा स्रोतांच्या शोधासाठी भ्रष्टाचाराच्या मार्गांचा कळत न कळत अवलंब करावा लागतो. अशी माणसं ग्राहक चळवळीला कोणता आधार देणार? आजच्या भारतीय ग्राहक दिनानिमित्त या आव्हानाचा परामर्श... )
जागतिकीकरणाच्या लाटेने केवळ आपल्या अर्थव्यवस्थेवरच परिणाम केला नसून आपल्या वैयक्तिक आणि सामाजिक जीवनावर देखील दूरगामी परिणाम केला आहे. आज आपण 'भारतीय नागरिक' म्हणून नव्हे तर 'जागतिक नागरिक' म्हणून जीवन जगणे अधिक पसंत करू लागलो आहोत. परिणामी आपल्या जीवनशैलीत आमूलाग्र बदल झालेला दिसून येतो. नाविन्याची ओढ एकसारखी वाढत आहे.
आपली जीवनशैली बदलली म्हणजे नेमके काय घडले? या प्रश्नाचे उत्तर विस्ताराने देता येईल. परंतु काही वैशिष्ट्यपूर्ण बदलांचाच येथे मी विचार करणार आहे. ग्राहक चळवळीतील एक कार्यकर्ता म्हणून हे बदल मला प्रकर्षाने जाणवतात आणि भिववितात देखील.
गेल्या २०-२५ वर्षांत 'आहेरे' (Haves) आणि 'नाहीरे' (Have nots) मधील अंतर भरमसाठ वाढले आहे. तंत्रज्ञानाधिष्ठित समाजात ज्ञानाचे महत्त्व वाढल्यामुळे 'आहेरे' वर्गाच्या उत्पन्नात भरमसाठ वाढ झाली असून त्यांच्याकडे आवश्यकतेपेक्षा अधिक पैसा येत आहे. आज आपण आपल्या देशात तीन लाखांपासून ६८-७० लाखांच्या दरवषीर्च्या पॅकेजेसची भाषा बोलू लागलो आहोत. काही हजारांत उत्पन्न कमावले, त्यांच्या घरात आता लाखाने उत्पन्न येऊ लागले. स्वाभाविकपणे या लोकांची जीवन जगण्यासंबंधीची 'अभिप्सा' बदलली. त्यांना सर्व उत्तम दर्जाच्या आणि आकर्षक अशा गोष्टींचे आकर्षण वाटू लागले. महागड्या गोष्टींकडे कल वाढला. जगाला भेडसावणाऱ्या महागाईविषयी त्यांची तक्रार नाही. कारण त्यांना अधिक खर्च करणे शक्य आहे. म्हणून ते साध्या दुकानात न जाता मॉल्सच्या वाटेने जाऊ लागले आहेत. या ग्राहकवर्गाने 'महागड्या जीवनशैलीचा' मनापासून स्वीकार केलेला दिसून येतो. क्वालिटी महत्त्वाची, किंमत दुय्यम.
अलीकडच्या आधुनिक कुटुंबात दोन गोष्टींचा शिरकाव झालेला दिसून येतो. त्या म्हणजे, प्रत्येक गोष्टीसाठी 'होम डिलिव्हरी' आणि 'किचनलेस फॅमिली'. या दोन्ही गोष्टी बदलत्या जीवनशैलीची खास वैशिष्ट्ये आहेत. किराणा माल मागवायचाय? करा दुकानदाराला फोन आणि द्या ऑर्डर. या फोनवरील मागणीला पूर्ण करणारी 'होम डिलिव्हरी' आजची जीवनशैली बनू पाहत आहे.
त्याचवेळी मुंबई-पुणे-अहमदाबाद अशा काही शहरांत 'किचनलेस होम' ही संकल्पना रूढ होत असताना दिसत आहे. तरुण जोडप्यांनी तिचा अवलंब करायला सुरुवात केली आहे. सकाळी ८ ते रात्री १० पर्यंत घराबाहेर असलेल्या या तरुण जोडप्यांना 'किचन'ची आवश्यकताच भासत नाही. सकाळचा चहा-नास्ता बाहेर. दुपारचे जेवण ऑफिसच्या कँटिनमध्ये आणि रात्रीचे घरी परतताना चांगल्या हॉटेलमध्ये. ही जीवनशैली विकसित होत गेल्यावर घर हे विश्रामगृह बनेल आणि 'आमच्या घरी जेवायला या' या वाक्याची सामाजिक जीवनातून हकालपट्टी होईल.
यातूनच 'युज अँड थ्रो कल्चर' (वापरा आणि फेका संस्कृती) उभे राहत असल्याचे दिसून येते. कोणतीही वस्तू फार काळ वापरायची नाही किंवा घरात ठेवायची नाही. वस्तू वापरायची आणि तिची अल्पकाळातच विल्हेवाट लावायची हे या कल्चरचे वैशिष्ट्य. माझ्या आईचे लग्न १९व्या वर्षी झाले, पण वयाच्या ५०व्या वर्षापर्यंत लग्नातील शालू तिच्याजवळ होता. तिला त्याचा अभिमानही वाटे. पण आता कोणतीही वस्तू लवकर 'रिप्लेस' करण्याची प्रवृत्ती वाढत आहे.
२०-२५ वर्षांपूवीर् प्रत्येक घरात टेलिफोन होता अशी स्थिती नव्हती. पण कम्युनिकेशन टेक्नॉलॉजीने क्रांती घडवून आणली असून आज 'मोबाईल' हे एक खेळणे झाल्यासारखे वाटते. माध्यमिक शाळेत जाणाऱ्या मुलामुलींपासून वयाची पंचाहत्तरी पूर्ण केलेल्या व्यक्तीच्या हाती मोबाईल दिसून येतो. मोबाईलशिवाय अनेकांचे काम अडते. इतका मोबाईल आपल्या आजच्या जीवनात अविभाज्य झाला आहे. नाशिकला ११० मोबाईल टॉवर्सना सील ठोकले, तर लाखाच्यावर मोबाईल बंद पडले. सर्व ग्राहक जाहीर तक्रार करू लागले. ही स्थिती सर्व भारतभर आहे.
अशा या बदलत्या जीवनशैलीचा देशातील ग्राहक चळवळीवर काय परिणाम होणार हा खरा चिंतेचा प्रश्न आहे. उपभोगप्रधान समाजातील ग्राहक देशातील ग्राहक चळवळीला उपयुक्त ठरतील का, हा खरा सवाल आहे. अशा उच्चभ्रू समाजातील लोकांना ग्राहक चळवळीची आवश्यकता वाटेल का? असे ग्राहक सहजरीत्या संघटित होतील का? पैशाच्या जोरावर ते सर्व प्रकारचे सुख उपभोगू शकतात. त्यांना ग्राहक चळवळ आवश्यक वाटेल का? अशा ग्राहकांचे प्रश्न सामान्य ग्राहकांच्या, गरीब ग्राहकांच्या प्रश्नांपेक्षा भिन्न असणार यात शंका नाही. इंटरनेटच्या जमान्यात वावरणारे हे सुशिक्षित आणि उच्च मध्यम वर्गातील ग्राहक एकत्र येऊन ग्राहक चळवळ समर्थ करण्यास किती उपयुक्त ठरतील, याविषयी मी साशंक आहे. म्हणून इंटरनेटच्या युगातील ग्राहक चळवळीसंबंधी गंभीरपणे विचार करण्याची आवश्यकता ग्राहक संघटनांपुढे निर्माण झाली आहे.
आजच्या तरुण ग्राहकांच्या उपभोगविषयक सवयी अत्यंत 'खचिर्क' होत चालल्या आहेत. याचाच अर्थ त्यांच्याकडून टिकावू (sustainable) जीवनशैलीचा अव्हेर होत आहे. भारतीय समाजात टिकावू जीवनपद्धतीचा शतकानुशतके अवलंब केला गेला पण गेल्या २०-२५ वर्षांत विचित्र चित्र निर्माण होत असल्याचे दिसते. उपभोगावर संयम ठेवणे आवश्यक आहे याची जाणीव करून द्यायला हवी आहे, कारण कर्ज काढून उपभोग घेण्याची वृत्ती वाढत आहे. पूवीर्चा अशिक्षित ग्राहक कर्ज काढून थाटात मुलीचे लग्न करायचा आणि व्यापारी आणि सावकाराकडून लुबाडला जायचा. तशीच परिस्थिती या सुशिक्षित केडिट कार्ड अथवा डेबिट कार्ड धारकांची होत आहे. ग्राहक चळवळीपुढे हे एक वेगळेच आव्हान आहे.
सातत्याने विकसित होत जाणारी ही नवी जीवनशैली आपल्या देशातील नीतिमूल्यांवर घाव घालणारी आहे. कारण खचिर्क जीवनशैली जगण्यासाठी प्रत्यक्ष उत्पन्नापेक्षा अधिक उत्पन्नाचे सोत निर्माण करावे लागतात आणि अशा सोतांच्या शोधासाठी भ्रष्टाचाराच्या मार्गावर कळत न कळत चालत जावे लागते. नंतर तो मार्ग स्वीकारला जातो. आज अशी माणसे या नवीन जीवनशैलीचा यथेच्छ उपभोग घेताना दिसत आहेत. अशी माणसं ग्राहक चळवळीला कोणता आधार देणार? आणि ग्राहक चळवळ 'अशा' ग्राहकांच्या आधारावर का चालवायची याचाही विचार करावा लागणार.
पुढील दहा वर्षांत जीवनशैली अशीच वेगाने बदलत गेली तर ग्राहक चळवळ ही 'कागदावरील चळवळ' या स्वरूपात राहील किंवा समाजातील केवळ उपेक्षित ग्राहकांसाठीच राबविली जाईल आणि शेवटी इतर चळवळींचे जे झाले, तेच ग्राहक चळवळीचेही होईल. भक्कम आधाराशिवाय कोणतीच चळवळ उभी राहू शकत नाही आणि तिची वाढही होऊ शकत नाही. अशा भक्कम आधाराचा शोध घेण्याचे आव्हानात्मक काम ग्राहक संघटनांना या पुढील काळात करावे लागणार आहे.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Prashikshan Shibir at RMP on 5th & 6th Dec 2009
धोरण ठरविणे, निर्णय घेणे आणि त्याची अंमलबजावणी करणे यांत गुणात्मक बदल घडविण्यासाठी प्रशिक्षणाची आवश्यकता लक्षांत घेऊन मुख्यत्वे मुंबई ग्राहक पंचायतीच्या कार्यकारिणी सदस्यांसाठी आणि निर्णय प्रक्रियेशी संबंधित असणाऱ्या काही कार्यकर्त्यांसाठी एक प्रशिक्षण शिबिर रामभाऊ म्हाळगी प्रबोधिनीच्या साह्याने ज्ञान नैपुण्य केंद्र, उत्तन येथे शनिवार दि.५ व रविवार दि.६ डिसेंबर २००९ या दिवशी आयोजित करण्यांत आले होते.
या शिबिरांत मुं.ग्रा.पं.च्या विश्वस्त श्रीम.ललिताताई कुलकर्णी, उपाध्यक्ष श्री.विवेक पत्की, ज्येष्ट सदस्य श्री.कमलाकर पेंडसे आदि मान्यवरही उपस्थित होते. कार्यकारिणी सदस्य आणि निमंत्रित मिळून एकूण २३ जणांनी या शिबिरांत भाग घेतला.
कार्याध्यक्ष श्री. शिरीष देशपांडे यांनी दीप प्रज्वलन करून या शिबिराचे उदघाटन केले.
“ ग्राहक चळवळीचा मापदंड ठरणारे कार्य मुं.ग्रा.पं. चे आहे. रामभाऊ म्हाळगी प्रबोधिनीचा हा बहुमान आहे की प्रशिक्षण वर्गाचे भाग्य आम्हाला लाभले ” असे गौरवोद्गार या प्रसंगी प्रबोधिनीचे संचालक डॅ।.विनय सहस्रबुद्धे यांनी काढले.
शिबिराचे उद्दिष्ट सांगतांना कार्याध्यक्ष श्री. शिरीष देशपांडे यांनी ग्राहक चळवळीत प्रभावीपणे, सक्षमतेने कार्य करण्यासाठी या प्रशिक्षण शिबिराचा उपयोग होईल अशी आशा व्यक्त केली.
पहिल्या दिवशीच्या ४ सत्रांत स्वयंसेवी संस्थांचे जग (डॅ।.विनय सहस्रबुद्धे), स्वयंसेवी संस्थांचे व्हिजन आणि मिशन, स्वयंसेवी संस्थांची व्यवसायनिष्ठता, कायदेशीर औपचारिकता आणि कार्यपद्धती (श्री.विवेक अत्रे), संस्थात्मक संबंध: जनसंपर्क, प्रतिनिधित्व आणि अन्य पैलू (श्री. प्रशांत दीक्षित) हे विषय होते.
दुसऱ्या दिवशीच्या सत्रांत संस्थात्मक नेतृत्व, सहभागिता, आणि टीम कार्यपद्धती, नेतृत्वाच्या दुसऱ्या फळीची जोपासना (श्री.गिरीश जाखोटिया), स्वयंसेवी संस्थांसाठी वित्तीय अनुशासन (श्री.चंद्रशेखर वझे) हे विषय होते.
शेवटच्या सत्राची सुरुवात श्री.कमलाकर पेंडसे यांच्या प्रास्ताविकाने झाली. त्यानंतर मुंबई ग्राहक पंचायतीपुढील आव्हानांसंबंधी सदस्यांनी आपले विचार मांडले. या सत्राचे अध्यक्षस्थान मुं.ग्रा.पं.चे अध्यक्ष डॅ।.रामदास गुजराथी यांनी भूषविले होते. समारोप करतांना आपले मार्गदर्शक विचार त्यांनी मांडले आणि “दर २ महिन्यांनी नियमितपणे अशी शिबिरे घ्यावीत”, असे प्रतिपादन केले.
या शिबिरांत मुं.ग्रा.पं.च्या विश्वस्त श्रीम.ललिताताई कुलकर्णी, उपाध्यक्ष श्री.विवेक पत्की, ज्येष्ट सदस्य श्री.कमलाकर पेंडसे आदि मान्यवरही उपस्थित होते. कार्यकारिणी सदस्य आणि निमंत्रित मिळून एकूण २३ जणांनी या शिबिरांत भाग घेतला.
कार्याध्यक्ष श्री. शिरीष देशपांडे यांनी दीप प्रज्वलन करून या शिबिराचे उदघाटन केले.
“ ग्राहक चळवळीचा मापदंड ठरणारे कार्य मुं.ग्रा.पं. चे आहे. रामभाऊ म्हाळगी प्रबोधिनीचा हा बहुमान आहे की प्रशिक्षण वर्गाचे भाग्य आम्हाला लाभले ” असे गौरवोद्गार या प्रसंगी प्रबोधिनीचे संचालक डॅ।.विनय सहस्रबुद्धे यांनी काढले.
शिबिराचे उद्दिष्ट सांगतांना कार्याध्यक्ष श्री. शिरीष देशपांडे यांनी ग्राहक चळवळीत प्रभावीपणे, सक्षमतेने कार्य करण्यासाठी या प्रशिक्षण शिबिराचा उपयोग होईल अशी आशा व्यक्त केली.
पहिल्या दिवशीच्या ४ सत्रांत स्वयंसेवी संस्थांचे जग (डॅ।.विनय सहस्रबुद्धे), स्वयंसेवी संस्थांचे व्हिजन आणि मिशन, स्वयंसेवी संस्थांची व्यवसायनिष्ठता, कायदेशीर औपचारिकता आणि कार्यपद्धती (श्री.विवेक अत्रे), संस्थात्मक संबंध: जनसंपर्क, प्रतिनिधित्व आणि अन्य पैलू (श्री. प्रशांत दीक्षित) हे विषय होते.
दुसऱ्या दिवशीच्या सत्रांत संस्थात्मक नेतृत्व, सहभागिता, आणि टीम कार्यपद्धती, नेतृत्वाच्या दुसऱ्या फळीची जोपासना (श्री.गिरीश जाखोटिया), स्वयंसेवी संस्थांसाठी वित्तीय अनुशासन (श्री.चंद्रशेखर वझे) हे विषय होते.
शेवटच्या सत्राची सुरुवात श्री.कमलाकर पेंडसे यांच्या प्रास्ताविकाने झाली. त्यानंतर मुंबई ग्राहक पंचायतीपुढील आव्हानांसंबंधी सदस्यांनी आपले विचार मांडले. या सत्राचे अध्यक्षस्थान मुं.ग्रा.पं.चे अध्यक्ष डॅ।.रामदास गुजराथी यांनी भूषविले होते. समारोप करतांना आपले मार्गदर्शक विचार त्यांनी मांडले आणि “दर २ महिन्यांनी नियमितपणे अशी शिबिरे घ्यावीत”, असे प्रतिपादन केले.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
कार्यकर्ता प्रशिक्षण शिबीर.(१२,१३ डिसेंबर २००९)
मुंबई ग्राहक पंचायतीच्या दहिसर येथील सदनिकेत झालेल्या कार्यकर्ता प्रशिक्षण शिबीरात रविवार दि.१३ डिसेंबर रोजी बोलताना कार्योपाध्यक्ष श्री.भालचंद्र नाईक. शेजारी बसलेले मु.ग्रा.पं.चे उपाध्यक्ष श्री.विवेक पत्की.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Trustees of Mumbai Grahak Panchayat.
1) Dr.L.N.Godbole.
2) Dr.Ramdas Gujarathi.
3) Mr.Vinayak Lele.
4) Ms.Lalita Kulkarni.
5) Mr.Arvind Deshpande.
2) Dr.Ramdas Gujarathi.
3) Mr.Vinayak Lele.
4) Ms.Lalita Kulkarni.
5) Mr.Arvind Deshpande.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Karyakarta Prashikshan Shibir at Dahisar Sadanika.
A 2-day Karyakarta Prashikshan Shibir was organised at Dahisar Sadanika on Sat.12/12/2009 and Sun.13/12/2009.
24 activists of Mumbai Grahak Panchayat from Borivali and Dahisar area participated.
Venue: Ambar Tower, Kandarpada, Dahisar(W), Mumbai.
The faculty members were:Mr.Bhalchandra Naik, Mr.Kamalakar Pendse, Ms.Vanamala Manjure, Ms.Vasundhara Deodhar on 12/12/2009 and Ad.Shirish Deshpande, Dr.Ramdas Gujarathi, Mr.Ashok Rawat, Mr.Vivek Patki on 13/12/2009.
24 activists of Mumbai Grahak Panchayat from Borivali and Dahisar area participated.
Venue: Ambar Tower, Kandarpada, Dahisar(W), Mumbai.
The faculty members were:Mr.Bhalchandra Naik, Mr.Kamalakar Pendse, Ms.Vanamala Manjure, Ms.Vasundhara Deodhar on 12/12/2009 and Ad.Shirish Deshpande, Dr.Ramdas Gujarathi, Mr.Ashok Rawat, Mr.Vivek Patki on 13/12/2009.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
MGP Prashikshan Shibir.
With the help of Rambhau Mhalgi Prabodhini, a 2-day Training Programme was organised for the activists of Mumbai Grahak Panchayat on 5th and 6th December 2009 at Dnyan Naipunya Kendra,Uttan,Bhayandar(W),Thane.401 106.
23 participants including office bearers,invitees and members of managing committee of Mumbai Grahak Panchayat took part.
Chairman Ad.Shirish Deshpande inaugurated the training programme by lighting the lamp. Honourable Vice President of MGP Mr.Vivek Patki, Hon.Trustee Ms.Lalitatai Kulkarni,Hon.Senior member Mr.Kamalakar Pendse and Hon.Dr.Vinay Sahasrabuddhe graced the occasion.
The faculty members guiding the activists included Dr. Vinay sahasrabuddhe, Mr. Vivek Atre, Mr.Prashant Dixit,Mr.Girish Jakhotia and Mr.Chandrashekhar Vaze.
The concluding session was chaired by President of MGP Dr.Ramdas Gujrathi on 6th Dec,2009.
23 participants including office bearers,invitees and members of managing committee of Mumbai Grahak Panchayat took part.
Chairman Ad.Shirish Deshpande inaugurated the training programme by lighting the lamp. Honourable Vice President of MGP Mr.Vivek Patki, Hon.Trustee Ms.Lalitatai Kulkarni,Hon.Senior member Mr.Kamalakar Pendse and Hon.Dr.Vinay Sahasrabuddhe graced the occasion.
The faculty members guiding the activists included Dr. Vinay sahasrabuddhe, Mr. Vivek Atre, Mr.Prashant Dixit,Mr.Girish Jakhotia and Mr.Chandrashekhar Vaze.
The concluding session was chaired by President of MGP Dr.Ramdas Gujrathi on 6th Dec,2009.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Special Features of Banknotes.
Are there any special features introduced in the notes of Mahatma Gandhi series?
The new Mahatma Gandhi series of notes contain several special features vis-à-vis the notes issued earlier. These are:
i) Security thread: Rs.10, Rs.20 and Rs.50 notes contain a readable but fully embedded security windowed security thread. Rs.100, Rs.500 and Rs.1000 notes contain a readable windowed security thread. This thread is partially exposed and partially embedded. When held against light, this thread can be seen as one continuous line. Other than on Rs.1000 notes, this thread contains the words 'Bharat' in the devnagri script and 'RBI' appearing alternately. The security thread of the Rs.1000 note contains the inscription 'Bharat' in the devnagri script, '1000' and 'RBI'. Notes issued earlier have a plain, non-readable fully embedded security thread.
ii) Latent Image: A vertical band behind on the right side of the Mahatma Gandhi’s portrait, which contains a latent image, showing the denominational value 20, 50, 100, 500 or 1000 as the case may be. The value can be seen only when the note is held on the palm and light allowed to fall on it at 45° ; otherwise this feature appears only as a vertical band.
iii) Microletterings: This feature appears between the vertical band and Mahatma Gandhi portrait. It contains the word ‘RBI’ in Rs.10. Notes of Rs.20 and above also contain the denominational value of the notes. This feature can be seen better under a magnifying glass.
iv) Identification mark: A special intaglio feature has been introduced on the left of the watermark window on all notes except Rs.10/- note. This feature is in different shapes for various denominations (Rs.20-Vertical Rectangle, Rs.50-Square, Rs.100-Triangle, Rs.500-Circle, Rs.1000-Diamond) and helps the visually impaired to identify the denomination.
v) Intaglio Printing: The portrait of Mahatma Gandhi, Reserve Bank seal, guarantee and promise clause, Ashoka Pillar Emblem on the left, RBI Governor's signature are printed in intaglio i.e. in raised prints in Rs.20, Rs.50, Rs.100, Rs.500 and Rs.1000 notes.
vi) Fluorescence: The number panels of the notes are printed in fluorescent ink. The notes also have optical fibres. Both can be seen when the notes are exposed to ultra-violet lamp.
vii) Optically Variable Ink: The numeral 500 & 1000 on the Rs.500 [revised colour scheme of mild yellow, mauve and brown] and Rs.1000 notes are printed in Optically Variable Ink viz., a colour-shifting ink. The colour of these numerals appear green when the notes are held flat but would change to blue when the notes are held at an angle.
Forgeries
How does one differentiate between a genuine note and a forged note?
The notes on which the above features are not available can be suspected as forged notes and examined minutely.
From R.B.I. site
The new Mahatma Gandhi series of notes contain several special features vis-à-vis the notes issued earlier. These are:
i) Security thread: Rs.10, Rs.20 and Rs.50 notes contain a readable but fully embedded security windowed security thread. Rs.100, Rs.500 and Rs.1000 notes contain a readable windowed security thread. This thread is partially exposed and partially embedded. When held against light, this thread can be seen as one continuous line. Other than on Rs.1000 notes, this thread contains the words 'Bharat' in the devnagri script and 'RBI' appearing alternately. The security thread of the Rs.1000 note contains the inscription 'Bharat' in the devnagri script, '1000' and 'RBI'. Notes issued earlier have a plain, non-readable fully embedded security thread.
ii) Latent Image: A vertical band behind on the right side of the Mahatma Gandhi’s portrait, which contains a latent image, showing the denominational value 20, 50, 100, 500 or 1000 as the case may be. The value can be seen only when the note is held on the palm and light allowed to fall on it at 45° ; otherwise this feature appears only as a vertical band.
iii) Microletterings: This feature appears between the vertical band and Mahatma Gandhi portrait. It contains the word ‘RBI’ in Rs.10. Notes of Rs.20 and above also contain the denominational value of the notes. This feature can be seen better under a magnifying glass.
iv) Identification mark: A special intaglio feature has been introduced on the left of the watermark window on all notes except Rs.10/- note. This feature is in different shapes for various denominations (Rs.20-Vertical Rectangle, Rs.50-Square, Rs.100-Triangle, Rs.500-Circle, Rs.1000-Diamond) and helps the visually impaired to identify the denomination.
v) Intaglio Printing: The portrait of Mahatma Gandhi, Reserve Bank seal, guarantee and promise clause, Ashoka Pillar Emblem on the left, RBI Governor's signature are printed in intaglio i.e. in raised prints in Rs.20, Rs.50, Rs.100, Rs.500 and Rs.1000 notes.
vi) Fluorescence: The number panels of the notes are printed in fluorescent ink. The notes also have optical fibres. Both can be seen when the notes are exposed to ultra-violet lamp.
vii) Optically Variable Ink: The numeral 500 & 1000 on the Rs.500 [revised colour scheme of mild yellow, mauve and brown] and Rs.1000 notes are printed in Optically Variable Ink viz., a colour-shifting ink. The colour of these numerals appear green when the notes are held flat but would change to blue when the notes are held at an angle.
Forgeries
How does one differentiate between a genuine note and a forged note?
The notes on which the above features are not available can be suspected as forged notes and examined minutely.
From R.B.I. site
Friday, November 6, 2009
JAGO GRAHAK, JAGO
This article was published in November 2009 issue of “ONE INDIA ONE PEOPLE”
Taking consumers for a ride is a common practice in our country. A little awareness about their rights and responsibilities will go a long way in enriching the quality of life of the consumer, says Bhalchandra Naik.
Globalisation has thrown open vast opportunities to consumers and advancement of technology has also added to consumers’ choice. Aggressive marketing, continuous bombardment of advertisements, publicity and promotion, brainwash consumers and tempt them to buy even unwanted products, leading to over consumption and indulgence in affluence. This sets the trend in pricing because of which the economically weaker sections of the society suffer more.
The consumers in general do not get real value for money in this process. They are ignorant about their rights as consumers. There is lack of awareness regarding even why to buy and what to buy. Consumer awareness is the knowledge that a consumer should have about his rights and responsibilities. The first and foremost right is the right to information. Consumers must know in advance about the quality, quantity, potency, purity, standard and right price of goods to be purchased and services to be hired.
The unscrupulous shopkeepers take undue advantage of the ignorance of consumers. It is a common experience that the consumers are over charged for various products. For example, a soft drink bottle of 500 ml. capacity whose M.R.P. is Rs. 22 is sold at Rs. 24 even if no additional service is provided. This is generally experienced in multiplexes where affluent consumers do not challenge this practice. M.R.P. means Maximum Retail Price and charging more than M.R.P. is an offence but consumers are unaware of this fact or feel shy of fighting against this malpractice. In such cases, consumers can file a complaint to Legal Metrology Department on 022-22886666.
Consumers should also insist on a bill which is useful when they have to fight legal battles. While purchasing costly items like gold, gold smiths often discourage consumers from insisting on a bill in order to save taxes. Later, if the consumers feel cheated they cannot fight their case in the absence of a bill. To ensure quality, consumers should purchase products having quality symbols like Hallmark, ISI, AGMARK, FPO etc.
Consumers have the social responsibility to educate themselves and others about consumer rights and responsibilities. Take the case of fake notes. Although Reserve Bank of India has issued information about the salient features of Rs. 1000 denomination notes, how many consumers can identify a fake note? If consumers can do so, they can help in discontinuing the circulation of fake notes and also save the nation from financial losses. In the poster “Know Your Banknote” it gives information about intaglio printing i.e. raised printing which can be felt by touching the note at eight places. There are other salient features as well to identify a fake note like the numeral 1000 changes from blue to green when the bank note is tilted. It is our national duty to spread this useful information and take necessary action whenever required.
Consumers are generally reluctant to fight for their rights but they have the social responsibility of exposing the manufacturers, suppliers or the service providers who resort to illegal trade practices. The Consumer Protection Act, 1986 offers protection against the deficiency in product or service, poor after sale service, damage/loss to health, life and property due to the product, hazards arising out of the product or service, misleading advertisements, unfair trade practices, restrictive trade practices etc.
There are simple formalities under this Act and consumers can fight their case without the help of an advocate. Complaints may be sent even through registered post. Registered consumer organisations or government can also file complaints on behalf of consumers.
This Act has given the consumers six rights: Right to safety, Right to information, Right to choose, Right to be heard, Right to redressal and Right to consumer education. Under the Constitution of India two more rights are implied: Right to healthy environment and Right to basic needs. Consumers should be aware of these rights and propagate this knowledge. It is their prime social responsibility.
There is a need to empower consumers so that they can protect themselves on their own. Though the awareness is increasing the pace is slow. The government sponsored campaigns like “Jago Grahak, Jago” (Wake up consumers) have created some awareness but there seems to be less positive impact on product/service. It is heartening to know that the government has approved a scheme of Rs. 409 crore during the 11th five-year plan on awareness campaign aimed at helping all consumers irrespective of age, socio-economic class or gender to make free, fair and informed choices of products or services. Under its “Jago Grahak, Jago” campaign the department is reaching consumers through print advertisements as well as regional newspapers, TV spots in Doordarshan and private channels, audio spots in All India Radio and private FM channels, and through posters in postal departments.
The National Consumer Helpline, which has been the focus of the awareness campaign, empowers consumers from all over the country to dial the toll-free number 1800-11-4000 and seek telephonic counselling for problems that they face as consumers.
Consumers too have to realise their role and exercise their rights. Before buying a product they should collect all the relevant information: the past performance of producer/supplier/seller/service provider, performance of product/service etc. While buying a product ask for demonstration of the use of the product, guarantee of operation, contact number, address, availability of after sale service etc., and insist on a proper bill and the warranty card signed by the dealer. After buying, use product as per the instruction manual, keep the bill and warranty card safely. In case of a complaint, consumers should inform the dealer and keep all the record of the correspondence. Consumers can also get guidance from complaint guidance cells of voluntary consumer organisations like Mumbai Grahak Panchayat, CGSI etc.
Consumers who fight for their rights act in a way as the honorary consultants to that industry as system correction is possible and procedural improvements are made especially in service sectors. Instead of grumbling, consumers must approach appropriate authorities for the redressal of their complaints.
Besides being aware of their rights consumers have other responsibilities which include exercising restraint on consumption of water, electricity, fuel and other non-renewable scarce commodities whenever possible, if a product can serve for a longer period using it instead of buying a new one and recycling a product where possible. Government alone cannot do everything. Consumers have to come forward and spread the message about consumer rights and responsibilities. Organised consumers is power. Therefore consumers must unite and fight for their rights. The market mechanism can be improved by continuous monitoring, vigilance and whistle blowing at the right time. Tools like PIL, RTI, CPA can be effectively used for correcting existing deficiencies and flaws in the existing system which will help in enriching the quality of life of consumers. ------------- BHALCHANDRA NAIK
The writer is Vice-Chairman, Mumbai Grahak Panchayat, Mumbai.
Contact the Writer .
Taking consumers for a ride is a common practice in our country. A little awareness about their rights and responsibilities will go a long way in enriching the quality of life of the consumer, says Bhalchandra Naik.
Globalisation has thrown open vast opportunities to consumers and advancement of technology has also added to consumers’ choice. Aggressive marketing, continuous bombardment of advertisements, publicity and promotion, brainwash consumers and tempt them to buy even unwanted products, leading to over consumption and indulgence in affluence. This sets the trend in pricing because of which the economically weaker sections of the society suffer more.
The consumers in general do not get real value for money in this process. They are ignorant about their rights as consumers. There is lack of awareness regarding even why to buy and what to buy. Consumer awareness is the knowledge that a consumer should have about his rights and responsibilities. The first and foremost right is the right to information. Consumers must know in advance about the quality, quantity, potency, purity, standard and right price of goods to be purchased and services to be hired.
The unscrupulous shopkeepers take undue advantage of the ignorance of consumers. It is a common experience that the consumers are over charged for various products. For example, a soft drink bottle of 500 ml. capacity whose M.R.P. is Rs. 22 is sold at Rs. 24 even if no additional service is provided. This is generally experienced in multiplexes where affluent consumers do not challenge this practice. M.R.P. means Maximum Retail Price and charging more than M.R.P. is an offence but consumers are unaware of this fact or feel shy of fighting against this malpractice. In such cases, consumers can file a complaint to Legal Metrology Department on 022-22886666.
Consumers should also insist on a bill which is useful when they have to fight legal battles. While purchasing costly items like gold, gold smiths often discourage consumers from insisting on a bill in order to save taxes. Later, if the consumers feel cheated they cannot fight their case in the absence of a bill. To ensure quality, consumers should purchase products having quality symbols like Hallmark, ISI, AGMARK, FPO etc.
Consumers have the social responsibility to educate themselves and others about consumer rights and responsibilities. Take the case of fake notes. Although Reserve Bank of India has issued information about the salient features of Rs. 1000 denomination notes, how many consumers can identify a fake note? If consumers can do so, they can help in discontinuing the circulation of fake notes and also save the nation from financial losses. In the poster “Know Your Banknote” it gives information about intaglio printing i.e. raised printing which can be felt by touching the note at eight places. There are other salient features as well to identify a fake note like the numeral 1000 changes from blue to green when the bank note is tilted. It is our national duty to spread this useful information and take necessary action whenever required.
Consumers are generally reluctant to fight for their rights but they have the social responsibility of exposing the manufacturers, suppliers or the service providers who resort to illegal trade practices. The Consumer Protection Act, 1986 offers protection against the deficiency in product or service, poor after sale service, damage/loss to health, life and property due to the product, hazards arising out of the product or service, misleading advertisements, unfair trade practices, restrictive trade practices etc.
There are simple formalities under this Act and consumers can fight their case without the help of an advocate. Complaints may be sent even through registered post. Registered consumer organisations or government can also file complaints on behalf of consumers.
This Act has given the consumers six rights: Right to safety, Right to information, Right to choose, Right to be heard, Right to redressal and Right to consumer education. Under the Constitution of India two more rights are implied: Right to healthy environment and Right to basic needs. Consumers should be aware of these rights and propagate this knowledge. It is their prime social responsibility.
There is a need to empower consumers so that they can protect themselves on their own. Though the awareness is increasing the pace is slow. The government sponsored campaigns like “Jago Grahak, Jago” (Wake up consumers) have created some awareness but there seems to be less positive impact on product/service. It is heartening to know that the government has approved a scheme of Rs. 409 crore during the 11th five-year plan on awareness campaign aimed at helping all consumers irrespective of age, socio-economic class or gender to make free, fair and informed choices of products or services. Under its “Jago Grahak, Jago” campaign the department is reaching consumers through print advertisements as well as regional newspapers, TV spots in Doordarshan and private channels, audio spots in All India Radio and private FM channels, and through posters in postal departments.
The National Consumer Helpline, which has been the focus of the awareness campaign, empowers consumers from all over the country to dial the toll-free number 1800-11-4000 and seek telephonic counselling for problems that they face as consumers.
Consumers too have to realise their role and exercise their rights. Before buying a product they should collect all the relevant information: the past performance of producer/supplier/seller/service provider, performance of product/service etc. While buying a product ask for demonstration of the use of the product, guarantee of operation, contact number, address, availability of after sale service etc., and insist on a proper bill and the warranty card signed by the dealer. After buying, use product as per the instruction manual, keep the bill and warranty card safely. In case of a complaint, consumers should inform the dealer and keep all the record of the correspondence. Consumers can also get guidance from complaint guidance cells of voluntary consumer organisations like Mumbai Grahak Panchayat, CGSI etc.
Consumers who fight for their rights act in a way as the honorary consultants to that industry as system correction is possible and procedural improvements are made especially in service sectors. Instead of grumbling, consumers must approach appropriate authorities for the redressal of their complaints.
Besides being aware of their rights consumers have other responsibilities which include exercising restraint on consumption of water, electricity, fuel and other non-renewable scarce commodities whenever possible, if a product can serve for a longer period using it instead of buying a new one and recycling a product where possible. Government alone cannot do everything. Consumers have to come forward and spread the message about consumer rights and responsibilities. Organised consumers is power. Therefore consumers must unite and fight for their rights. The market mechanism can be improved by continuous monitoring, vigilance and whistle blowing at the right time. Tools like PIL, RTI, CPA can be effectively used for correcting existing deficiencies and flaws in the existing system which will help in enriching the quality of life of consumers. ------------- BHALCHANDRA NAIK
The writer is Vice-Chairman, Mumbai Grahak Panchayat, Mumbai.
Contact the Writer .
Monday, November 2, 2009
Consumer Protection Act is in need of Protection
B.S.N.L.Calicut had, in August 2001 disconnected the telephone of one Mr. Krishnan due to non-payment of a bill of Rs. 17103/-.Mr. Krishnan pursued his grievance about the bill with B.S.N.L. but was unsuccessful. He filed a complaint before the District Forum (D.F.) Calicut.The latter by its order dt. 16-11-2001 directed B.S.N.L. to restore the connection and pay the complainant Rs. 5000/- towards compensation along with 12% interest.B.S.N.L. then moved the Kerala High Cour (H.C.) - A single Bench of the H.C. dismissed B.S.N.L.'s Plea and directed it to approach the Kerala state consumer Disputes Redressal Commission. (C.D.R.C.) Failing to be 'educated' by this rebuff, the B.S.N.L. appealed before a Division Bench of the Kerala H.C. The latter referred the appeal to a full Bench. The Bench dismissed the petitions on 14-02-2003. B.S.N.L.then moved the Hon. Supreme Court (S.C.) and challenged the judgement of the Kerala H.C. The S.C. Bench. comprising of Hon. justice Markandey Katju and Hon. Justice A. K. Ganguly allowed the appeal. They observed that there is a remedy prescribed US 7 B of the Indian Telegraph Act. of 1885 for resolution of all disputes regarding Telecommunication, through arbitration.
Since the Telegraph Act is a special law, its provisions would prevail over a general law likeConsumer Protection Act (C.P.A.) - "It is setteled law that general law must yield to special Law. The remedy under the C.P.A. is barred by implication" they held. This, in effect, will take away the jurisdication of the consumer Fora to entertain disputes relating to telecom services. With due respect to the judges, one cannothelp observing that the judgement shows lack of application of judicial mind. In the first place, thereis no reference whatsoerer to the relevant From the Consumer Courts Consumer Protection Act is in need of Protection A more serious implication is that if the logic of the judgement is to be stretched further, all
services including professional services for which special legislation is available, eg Airlines,Railways, Insurance,Banking, medicine, Law etc.will be out of the
jurisdiction of the C.P.A.This will defeat the whole purpose of creating a special
legislation for a single window system for speedy,simple and inexpensive redressal of consumer grievances.provisions/clauses of the C.P.A. whose jurisdiction it has set to define. The definition of service states "service of any description which is made availableto potential (users and includes, but not limited to,the provision of )facilities in connection with banking...., but does not include the rendering of any service free of change or under a contract of personal service. Telephone service does notqualify for either of the exceptions to the definition of a service. No where is it indicated that services which are ruled by a special legislation will be exempted from C.P.A.On the other hand, clause 3 of C.P.A. clearly states that "the provisions of this Act shall be in addition to and not in derogation of the provisions of any other law for the time being in force." This should clear any doubts about the applicabitily of C.P.A. in case of services for which special legislation is in force.Surprisingly, the judgement completely ignores and infact,
contradicts two earlier judgements of the Hon. S.C. viz. i) Fair Air Engineers VS. N. K. Modi and ii) Secretary,Thirumrugan Co.op. Agriculchral Credit Society Vs. M. Lalitha. In both of these judgements, the Hon. S.C. has held that above mentioned sec.3 of the C.P.A. imparts jurisdiction to the consumer Fora even in those cases where special Acts are in force. To quote from the judgements. "The Act (C.P.A.) intends to relieve the consumers of the cumbersome arbitration proceedings or civil action. ......... The Act creates a framework for speedy disposal of comsumer
disputes and an attempt has been made to remove the existing evils of the ordinery court system... The Act being a beneficial legislation should receive a Liberal construction." On the other hand, the Hon. judges have relied on an earlier Judgement of the S.C. Viz Chairman, Thiruvallurar Transport Corp. VS. Consumer Protection Council, which is far from relevant in the instant case. The judgement is not only controversial and illconceived but its implications are disastrous . The
immediate effect of the order will be that all complaints regarding telephone services pending before the Consumer Fora throughout the country will be dismissed. The complainants will have to file them afresh before the arbitrators appointed by the Govt. Telephone service providers on their part will not only keep compliance of the orders of the fora on hold, but also apply for a review of the cases already disposed off by the Fora.A more serious implication is that if the logic of the judgement is to be stretched further, all services including professional services for which special legislation is available, eg Airlines, Railways, Insurance, Banking, medicine, Law etc. will be out of the jurisdiction of the C.P.A. This will
defeat the whole purpose of creating a special legislation for a single window system for speedy,simple and inexpensive redressal of consumer grievances. This reminds me of the early 1990 s when various professional bodies and service providers tried their best to be exempted from the C.P.A. However, thanks to the efforts of the consumer organigations and judicious interpretation of the Act by the National commission and the Hon.supreme court. The jurisdiction of the C.P.A. has not only remained in tact but has actually expanded. Since the instant judgement may start a regressive trend by making inroads in the jurisdiction of the Comsumer Fora, consumer organisations in the country must take up this issue and make an unequivocal demand for a review of the judgement. M.G.P. also plans to approach the
Central Govt. (Dept.of Consumer Affairs and Dept.of Law and Judiciary) to take a lead in the matter of review of the judgement.
- Lalita Kulkarni
Ex-member Mumbai District Forum
Since the Telegraph Act is a special law, its provisions would prevail over a general law likeConsumer Protection Act (C.P.A.) - "It is setteled law that general law must yield to special Law. The remedy under the C.P.A. is barred by implication" they held. This, in effect, will take away the jurisdication of the consumer Fora to entertain disputes relating to telecom services. With due respect to the judges, one cannothelp observing that the judgement shows lack of application of judicial mind. In the first place, thereis no reference whatsoerer to the relevant From the Consumer Courts Consumer Protection Act is in need of Protection A more serious implication is that if the logic of the judgement is to be stretched further, all
services including professional services for which special legislation is available, eg Airlines,Railways, Insurance,Banking, medicine, Law etc.will be out of the
jurisdiction of the C.P.A.This will defeat the whole purpose of creating a special
legislation for a single window system for speedy,simple and inexpensive redressal of consumer grievances.provisions/clauses of the C.P.A. whose jurisdiction it has set to define. The definition of service states "service of any description which is made availableto potential (users and includes, but not limited to,the provision of )facilities in connection with banking...., but does not include the rendering of any service free of change or under a contract of personal service. Telephone service does notqualify for either of the exceptions to the definition of a service. No where is it indicated that services which are ruled by a special legislation will be exempted from C.P.A.On the other hand, clause 3 of C.P.A. clearly states that "the provisions of this Act shall be in addition to and not in derogation of the provisions of any other law for the time being in force." This should clear any doubts about the applicabitily of C.P.A. in case of services for which special legislation is in force.Surprisingly, the judgement completely ignores and infact,
contradicts two earlier judgements of the Hon. S.C. viz. i) Fair Air Engineers VS. N. K. Modi and ii) Secretary,Thirumrugan Co.op. Agriculchral Credit Society Vs. M. Lalitha. In both of these judgements, the Hon. S.C. has held that above mentioned sec.3 of the C.P.A. imparts jurisdiction to the consumer Fora even in those cases where special Acts are in force. To quote from the judgements. "The Act (C.P.A.) intends to relieve the consumers of the cumbersome arbitration proceedings or civil action. ......... The Act creates a framework for speedy disposal of comsumer
disputes and an attempt has been made to remove the existing evils of the ordinery court system... The Act being a beneficial legislation should receive a Liberal construction." On the other hand, the Hon. judges have relied on an earlier Judgement of the S.C. Viz Chairman, Thiruvallurar Transport Corp. VS. Consumer Protection Council, which is far from relevant in the instant case. The judgement is not only controversial and illconceived but its implications are disastrous . The
immediate effect of the order will be that all complaints regarding telephone services pending before the Consumer Fora throughout the country will be dismissed. The complainants will have to file them afresh before the arbitrators appointed by the Govt. Telephone service providers on their part will not only keep compliance of the orders of the fora on hold, but also apply for a review of the cases already disposed off by the Fora.A more serious implication is that if the logic of the judgement is to be stretched further, all services including professional services for which special legislation is available, eg Airlines, Railways, Insurance, Banking, medicine, Law etc. will be out of the jurisdiction of the C.P.A. This will
defeat the whole purpose of creating a special legislation for a single window system for speedy,simple and inexpensive redressal of consumer grievances. This reminds me of the early 1990 s when various professional bodies and service providers tried their best to be exempted from the C.P.A. However, thanks to the efforts of the consumer organigations and judicious interpretation of the Act by the National commission and the Hon.supreme court. The jurisdiction of the C.P.A. has not only remained in tact but has actually expanded. Since the instant judgement may start a regressive trend by making inroads in the jurisdiction of the Comsumer Fora, consumer organisations in the country must take up this issue and make an unequivocal demand for a review of the judgement. M.G.P. also plans to approach the
Central Govt. (Dept.of Consumer Affairs and Dept.of Law and Judiciary) to take a lead in the matter of review of the judgement.
- Lalita Kulkarni
Ex-member Mumbai District Forum
Say "TATA" to Reliance.
RELIANCE CONSUMERS CAN NOW SWITCH OVER TO TATA POWER IN JUST 30 DAYS
Steep in crease in power tariff of Reliance for Mumbai suburban consumers announced by MERC in June 2009 prompted Mumbai Grahak Panchayat (MGP) to blow whistle. MGP gave a call to “SAY “TATA” TO RELIANCE” and that set the ball rolling for competition in the power sector – a first of its kind in India!
Caught unaware of this sudden call from MGP based on legal provisions in Electricity Act 2003, both Reliance and Tata Power were forced to work out modalities for change-over protocol. However, both Reliance & Tata were keen to have their own meters, although the power was to be supplied by Tata and bills were also to be raised by Tata. MGP asserted consumers’ right to choice with regard to Meters and ultimately MERC too resolved this issue in favour of consumers. MERC has now approved protocol to be followed by both Reliance & Tats as well as by Reliance consumers intending to migrate to Tata Power. This protocol allows Reliance consumers to avail Tata’s cheaper power within just 30 days. The procedure for this change-over (migration) is also simplified by MERC.
What Reliance consumer has to do to switch over to Tata Power?
Ø APPLICATION FORMS: Obtain individual Application forms for change-over free of cost from any Customer Service Centre of either Reliance or Tata Power Company. Also available on their websites which can be downloaded.
Ø Documents required: Documents required to be submitted along with the Application: (a) Proof of residence such as voter ID card or Passport copy or Ration Card or, Society share certificate or MCGM property tax receipt (b) Identity Proof such as Voter ID card or PAN card or Passport copy or Driving License and (c) Copy of last paid Reliance Electricity Bill.
Ø CHOICE OF METER: The applicant has to indicate in this application his choice about the meter i.e. whether he wants to have Tata Power Meter or would continue with Reliance (R-infra) or he would purchase his own meter. If the applicant opts for Tata meter, he does not have to pay any charges for the same.
Ø Payment of handling charges and Security Deposit: The applicant has to pay to Tata Power handling charges of Rs 25/- for single phase connection and Rs 50/- for three-phase connection. In addition, the applicant is also required to pay to Tata Power refundable Security Deposit. Normally, for single phase connection with average consumption of 300 units per month, Security Deposit payable would be Rs 600/- and for 500 units it would be Rs 1000/-. Cheque for this total amount has to be drawn in favour of “The Tata Power Company Ltd.”
Ø Submission of application forms: Duly completed application form alongwith cheque has to be submitted to the Customer Service Centre of Tata Power alongwith above documents.
Ø No NOC is required from Reliance for this change over from Reliance to Tata Power.
Ø CHANGE OVER DATE: Seven days after submitting the duly completed application form and the cheque, whichever is the next meter reading date of the applicant indicated in his latest Reliance bill, will be the change-over date. On this date, representatives of both Reliance and Tata would be present to take the final meter reading of Reliance. If the applicant has opted for Tata meter, the same will be installed by removing Reliance meter. The applicant is entitled to remain present when such meter reading is being taken. As per rules, such connection has to be provided within 30 days.
Ø Meter –reading: After the change over, the meter will be read every month by meter reader of Tata Power.
Ø Billing: Once the applicant has changed over from Reliance to Tata, the monthly bills will be raised by Tata Power and bills will be payable to Tata Power. The bill will include consumption charges as per Tata’s approved tariff rate plus wheeling charges ( 88 paise per unit) payable to Reliance for using their infrastructure. However, as insisted by MGP and agreed by MERC, there will be a reduction of 37 paise per unit and hence the net wheeling charges that will now be payable by consumers will be only 51 paise per unit.
Ø Complaints: Any complaints of the change-over consumer have to be addressed and sent to Tata Power only. ( A single window system). If the nature of the complaint requires clarification/explanation from Reliance, then Tata Power will send the copy of the complaint to Reliance and Tata Power will communicate final redressal to the consumer.
Ø WHO SHOULD CHANGE OVER?: Although Reliance tariff was increased from June 2009, MERC has stayed the operation of the same as directed by Maharashtra Government. Reliance consumers are therefore presently being billed on the basis of old pre-June 2009 rates. However, if consumers change over to Tata Power, the revised tariff of Tata Power which came into effect from June 2009 will be applicable. In addition there will be wheeling charges of 51 paise per unit ( 88 paise minus 37 paise) will be payable by way of wheeling charges. Taking all these factors into consideration, only those Reliance consumers having monthly consumption of 200 units or more would benefit by this change over to Tata Power as of now. Hence, presently it is beneficial for only consumer with more than 200 units consumption to change over to Tata Power. In case the stay of Reliance tariff is vacated and the increased tariff is allowed to be charged, then even a consumer having monthly consumption of 50 units or more will benefit.
Now that the entire procedure for change-over from Reliance to Tata Power has been streamlined and simplified by MERC, Mumbai Grahak Panchayat once again calls upon all Reliance consumers with more than 200 units monthly consumption to immediately apply for switching over to Tata Power and herald the first-ever competition in the power sector to ensure better deal for consumers.
(Adv. Shirish V. Deshpande )
Chairman – Mumbai Grahak Panchayat
Contact: 9892335618
Steep in crease in power tariff of Reliance for Mumbai suburban consumers announced by MERC in June 2009 prompted Mumbai Grahak Panchayat (MGP) to blow whistle. MGP gave a call to “SAY “TATA” TO RELIANCE” and that set the ball rolling for competition in the power sector – a first of its kind in India!
Caught unaware of this sudden call from MGP based on legal provisions in Electricity Act 2003, both Reliance and Tata Power were forced to work out modalities for change-over protocol. However, both Reliance & Tata were keen to have their own meters, although the power was to be supplied by Tata and bills were also to be raised by Tata. MGP asserted consumers’ right to choice with regard to Meters and ultimately MERC too resolved this issue in favour of consumers. MERC has now approved protocol to be followed by both Reliance & Tats as well as by Reliance consumers intending to migrate to Tata Power. This protocol allows Reliance consumers to avail Tata’s cheaper power within just 30 days. The procedure for this change-over (migration) is also simplified by MERC.
What Reliance consumer has to do to switch over to Tata Power?
Ø APPLICATION FORMS: Obtain individual Application forms for change-over free of cost from any Customer Service Centre of either Reliance or Tata Power Company. Also available on their websites which can be downloaded.
Ø Documents required: Documents required to be submitted along with the Application: (a) Proof of residence such as voter ID card or Passport copy or Ration Card or, Society share certificate or MCGM property tax receipt (b) Identity Proof such as Voter ID card or PAN card or Passport copy or Driving License and (c) Copy of last paid Reliance Electricity Bill.
Ø CHOICE OF METER: The applicant has to indicate in this application his choice about the meter i.e. whether he wants to have Tata Power Meter or would continue with Reliance (R-infra) or he would purchase his own meter. If the applicant opts for Tata meter, he does not have to pay any charges for the same.
Ø Payment of handling charges and Security Deposit: The applicant has to pay to Tata Power handling charges of Rs 25/- for single phase connection and Rs 50/- for three-phase connection. In addition, the applicant is also required to pay to Tata Power refundable Security Deposit. Normally, for single phase connection with average consumption of 300 units per month, Security Deposit payable would be Rs 600/- and for 500 units it would be Rs 1000/-. Cheque for this total amount has to be drawn in favour of “The Tata Power Company Ltd.”
Ø Submission of application forms: Duly completed application form alongwith cheque has to be submitted to the Customer Service Centre of Tata Power alongwith above documents.
Ø No NOC is required from Reliance for this change over from Reliance to Tata Power.
Ø CHANGE OVER DATE: Seven days after submitting the duly completed application form and the cheque, whichever is the next meter reading date of the applicant indicated in his latest Reliance bill, will be the change-over date. On this date, representatives of both Reliance and Tata would be present to take the final meter reading of Reliance. If the applicant has opted for Tata meter, the same will be installed by removing Reliance meter. The applicant is entitled to remain present when such meter reading is being taken. As per rules, such connection has to be provided within 30 days.
Ø Meter –reading: After the change over, the meter will be read every month by meter reader of Tata Power.
Ø Billing: Once the applicant has changed over from Reliance to Tata, the monthly bills will be raised by Tata Power and bills will be payable to Tata Power. The bill will include consumption charges as per Tata’s approved tariff rate plus wheeling charges ( 88 paise per unit) payable to Reliance for using their infrastructure. However, as insisted by MGP and agreed by MERC, there will be a reduction of 37 paise per unit and hence the net wheeling charges that will now be payable by consumers will be only 51 paise per unit.
Ø Complaints: Any complaints of the change-over consumer have to be addressed and sent to Tata Power only. ( A single window system). If the nature of the complaint requires clarification/explanation from Reliance, then Tata Power will send the copy of the complaint to Reliance and Tata Power will communicate final redressal to the consumer.
Ø WHO SHOULD CHANGE OVER?: Although Reliance tariff was increased from June 2009, MERC has stayed the operation of the same as directed by Maharashtra Government. Reliance consumers are therefore presently being billed on the basis of old pre-June 2009 rates. However, if consumers change over to Tata Power, the revised tariff of Tata Power which came into effect from June 2009 will be applicable. In addition there will be wheeling charges of 51 paise per unit ( 88 paise minus 37 paise) will be payable by way of wheeling charges. Taking all these factors into consideration, only those Reliance consumers having monthly consumption of 200 units or more would benefit by this change over to Tata Power as of now. Hence, presently it is beneficial for only consumer with more than 200 units consumption to change over to Tata Power. In case the stay of Reliance tariff is vacated and the increased tariff is allowed to be charged, then even a consumer having monthly consumption of 50 units or more will benefit.
Now that the entire procedure for change-over from Reliance to Tata Power has been streamlined and simplified by MERC, Mumbai Grahak Panchayat once again calls upon all Reliance consumers with more than 200 units monthly consumption to immediately apply for switching over to Tata Power and herald the first-ever competition in the power sector to ensure better deal for consumers.
(Adv. Shirish V. Deshpande )
Chairman – Mumbai Grahak Panchayat
Contact: 9892335618
Friday, October 23, 2009
State Consumer Helpline.
On Friday,23rd October 2009, at 11.00a.m. a meeting was held in the office of the Secretary,Food,Civil Supplies & Consumer Protection Department,Govt.of Maharashtra,Mantralaya,Mumbai-400 032 to discuss about the proposed State Consumer Helpline.
Following persons were present.
1) Mr.Baldev Singh. Secretary,FCS&CP Department
2) Mr.S.Y.Kursange Dy.Secretary,FCS&CP Department
3) Mr.Vivek Patki. Vice President, MGP
4) Mr.Bhalchandra Naik. Vice Chairman, MGP
5) Mr.Desai CGSI
6) Dr.Kamat CGSI
Mr. Baldev Sing initiated the discussion and invited suggestions.
Both the organisations CGSI & MGP welcomed the idea of launching the State Consumer Helpline and assured to lend the helping hand.
Mr.Vivek Patki emphasized the need to empower the Voluntary Consumer Organisations who are already working in the field of Consumer Protection.
Provision of toll free number,availibility of data base of information, infrastructure & adequate publicity would help CVO to do the job effectively.
Following persons were present.
1) Mr.Baldev Singh. Secretary,FCS&CP Department
2) Mr.S.Y.Kursange Dy.Secretary,FCS&CP Department
3) Mr.Vivek Patki. Vice President, MGP
4) Mr.Bhalchandra Naik. Vice Chairman, MGP
5) Mr.Desai CGSI
6) Dr.Kamat CGSI
Mr. Baldev Sing initiated the discussion and invited suggestions.
Both the organisations CGSI & MGP welcomed the idea of launching the State Consumer Helpline and assured to lend the helping hand.
Mr.Vivek Patki emphasized the need to empower the Voluntary Consumer Organisations who are already working in the field of Consumer Protection.
Provision of toll free number,availibility of data base of information, infrastructure & adequate publicity would help CVO to do the job effectively.
Some Important Sites.
1)National Cosumer Helpline: 1800 11 4000
2)http://www.cic.gov.in
3)http://www.sic.maharashtra.gov.in
4)http://www.rti.gov.in
5)http://www.maharashtra.gov.in
6)http://www.indiarti.blogspot.com
7)http://www.ncdrc.nic.in
2)http://www.cic.gov.in
3)http://www.sic.maharashtra.gov.in
4)http://www.rti.gov.in
5)http://www.maharashtra.gov.in
6)http://www.indiarti.blogspot.com
7)http://www.ncdrc.nic.in
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
More Productive and Effective Managing Committee Meetings.
To make the meetings of the Managing Committee of Mumbai Grahak Panchayat more productive and effective, Prof. Kamalakar Pendse stressed the importance to plan the activity in detail and to stick to it.
He also emphasized that members must try through their words and deeds, to create a very congenial,healthy atmosphere where a member-
i) appreciates the work done;
ii) points out what can be done to make it more effective/successful;
iii) offers himself/herself for the same and
iv) proves himself/herself complementary to one another.
v) expresses his/her views and opinions in a candid, friendly and pleasant manner.
He also emphasized that members must try through their words and deeds, to create a very congenial,healthy atmosphere where a member-
i) appreciates the work done;
ii) points out what can be done to make it more effective/successful;
iii) offers himself/herself for the same and
iv) proves himself/herself complementary to one another.
v) expresses his/her views and opinions in a candid, friendly and pleasant manner.
Special Nature of Mumbai Grahak Panchayat.
In an informal meeting of members of managing committee held on 12/10/2009 Prof. Kamalakar Pendse pointed out the special nature of Mumbai Grahak Panchayat in a leaflet circulated as follows:
a) It is a movement-social and economic.
b) It has a unique distribution system to realise, at least in some measures, its aims of educating,organising and protecting the consumers.
c) It is managed by volunteer-workers.
d) Its volunteer-force mainly consists of women.
e) It is not a "Non-Government Organisation" (NGO) but a self-dependent voluntary organisation.
a) It is a movement-social and economic.
b) It has a unique distribution system to realise, at least in some measures, its aims of educating,organising and protecting the consumers.
c) It is managed by volunteer-workers.
d) Its volunteer-force mainly consists of women.
e) It is not a "Non-Government Organisation" (NGO) but a self-dependent voluntary organisation.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Office-bearers of Mumbai Grahak Panchayat 2009-2010
Ref: Special Managing Comittee held on Tue.29/09/2009
President Dr. Ramdas Gujrathi
Vice-President Mr. Vivek Patki
Chairman Ad. Shirish Deshpande
Vice-Chairman Mr. Subhash Gandre
Vice-Chairman Mr. Bhalchandra Naik
Secretary Ms. Savita Donde
Secretary Ms. Jyoti Modak
Treasurer Mr. Shashikant Salvi
President Dr. Ramdas Gujrathi
Vice-President Mr. Vivek Patki
Chairman Ad. Shirish Deshpande
Vice-Chairman Mr. Subhash Gandre
Vice-Chairman Mr. Bhalchandra Naik
Secretary Ms. Savita Donde
Secretary Ms. Jyoti Modak
Treasurer Mr. Shashikant Salvi
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Annual General Body Meeting -2009
The 28th Annual General Body meeting of MGP was held on Sunday 20/09/2009 at Ruparel College, Matunga, Mumbai.
Mr.Vivek Patki Vice-President, presided over the meeting.
The following persons were declared elected as members of the Managing Commitee.
Ms.Anuradha Deshpande
Ms.Jyoti Modak
Ms.Anjali Khare
Ms.Smita Damle
Mr.Vivek Patki Vice-President, presided over the meeting.
The following persons were declared elected as members of the Managing Commitee.
Ms.Anuradha Deshpande
Ms.Jyoti Modak
Ms.Anjali Khare
Ms.Smita Damle
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Office-bearers of Mumbai Grahak Panchayat
President: Dr. Prabhakar R. Joshi.
Vice-President: Shree. Vivek Patki.
Chairman: Dr. Ramdas J. Gujrathi.
Vice-Chairman: Ad. Shirish Deshpande.
Vice-chairman: Shree. Subhash Gandre.
Secretary: Shree. Bhalchandra A. Naik.
Secretary: Smt. Savita Donde.
Treasurer: Shree Nishikant Gurjar.
Vice-President: Shree. Vivek Patki.
Chairman: Dr. Ramdas J. Gujrathi.
Vice-Chairman: Ad. Shirish Deshpande.
Vice-chairman: Shree. Subhash Gandre.
Secretary: Shree. Bhalchandra A. Naik.
Secretary: Smt. Savita Donde.
Treasurer: Shree Nishikant Gurjar.
Grahak Hitay, Grahak Sukhay.
Dear sisters and brothers,
It gives me pleasure to launch a blog of Mumbai Grahak Panchayat today i.e. on Thursday the 20th August 2009
My name is Bhalchandra Awadhoot Naik.
I am the Honorary Secretary of Mumbai Grahak Panchayat.
I have started this blog to have a dialogue with the consumers for Grahak Hitay, Grahak Sukhay.
Thanking you,
Yours truly,
B.A.Naik.
It gives me pleasure to launch a blog of Mumbai Grahak Panchayat today i.e. on Thursday the 20th August 2009
My name is Bhalchandra Awadhoot Naik.
I am the Honorary Secretary of Mumbai Grahak Panchayat.
I have started this blog to have a dialogue with the consumers for Grahak Hitay, Grahak Sukhay.
Thanking you,
Yours truly,
B.A.Naik.
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