The owners of Kiran Sweets decide, on their own, not to use cheap art…

The owners of Kiran Sweets decide, on their own, not to use cheap artificial colours in their sweets. They believe that serving customers in a rightful manner is in their long-term interest.

Which way of consumer protection does this show?

Answer & explanation

Correct answer: option 2

The correct answer is Option (2) → Self-regulation by business

Option (1) Consumer awareness — Incorrect. Consumer awareness means a well-informed consumer raises his voice against unfair practices. Here the step is taken by the sellers.

Option (2) Self-regulation by business — Correct. Self-regulation means socially responsible firms follow ethical standards on their own. Kiran Sweets drops cheap colours by its own choice, as serving customers rightly is in its long-term interest.

Option (3) Business associations — Incorrect. Business associations lay down a code of conduct for member firms. No association is involved; the firm decides by itself.

Option (4) Government — Incorrect. Government protects consumers by enacting measures such as laws and the helpline. No law or authority made the owners act.

NCERT (2026-27 Edition): “Ways and Means of Consumer Protection A consumers’ awareness about their rights and responsibilities is just one of the ways in which the objective of consumer protection can be achieved. There are other ways in which this objective may be achieved.
1. Self-regulation by Business: Socially responsible firms follow ethical standards and practices in dealing with their customers Good and ethical practices encourage firms to realise that it is in their long-term interest to serve the customers in a rightful manner. Many firms have set up their customer service and grievance cells to redress the problems and grievances of their consumers.”

“2. Business Associations: The associations of trade, commerce and business like Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce of India (FICCI) and Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) have laid down their code of conduct which lay down for their members the guidelines in their dealings with the customers.”