The following steps can be taken to protect consumers.
1. Self regulation:
Manufacturers and traders should practice self-discipline. They should regard the interests of consumers as their own interests. This measure is the most desirable but the least feasible.
Very few businessmen will really impose self-discipline on themselves. Many unscrupulous businessmen are interested only in making money and do not care for consumers at all.
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2. Voluntary organisations of consumers:
Consumers should voluntarily organise themselves by setting up consumers’ associations and consumer cooperatives. These organisations will promote consumer awareness and consumer education. This measure is very promising and has been widely used in different countries.
3. Consumer legislation:
Governments of different countries have adopted legislation for protecting the rights of consumer. Several laws exist in India for this purpose. The Consumer Protection Act, 1986 is the most popular one.