The government has formulated a draft national consumer policy with an aim to ensure that goods, services and technology are available to the consumers at reasonable prices and good quality. <br/><br/>The Department of Consumer Affairs has sought opinion from all stakeholders on the draft policy before finalising it. Noting that India is gradually integrating with global market, the draft policy said that the trade practices need to be identified and regulated to prevent exploitation of gullible consumers.<br/><br/>According to an official statement, laws and codes need to be re-engineered to make them compatible with the consumer empowerment. The proposed policy should cover empowering consumers through education and awareness, besides providing rights to consumers and mechanism for resolution of disputes.<br/>