Question : CONSUMER INFORMATION CENTRE

(a) whether the Government have invited applications from various voluntary organizations to run the consumer information centers at the State levels;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether any guidelines have been issued to the State Govt. in this regard;

(d) if so, the details thereof;

(e) whether the establishment cost of these centers is to be funded by the Union Government; and

(f) if so, the total centers that are to be set up in the country and funds allotted for the purpose, State-wise?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION (SHRI V. SREENIVASA PRASAD)

(a) & (b): Yes, Sir. The reputed consumer organizations in different State are eligible for opening of Consumer Information Centres. The State Governments have been requested to give wide publicity to the scheme of Consumer Information Centres in their respective States.

(c) to (e): Yes, Sir. The well reputed consumer organizations with good track, record are given financial assistance from Consumer Welfare Fund to set up Consumer Information Centres, which will function as a library, a resource center, a guidance center and a testing centre.

(f): Standing Committee for Consumer Welfare Fund decided to set up at least one Consumer Information Centre in each State to begin with. There is no scheme for allotting fund Statewise.