16/06/2026
16.06.2026: Awareness Programme on Consumer Protection and National Food Security Act 2013 held at Passingdang BAC
Mangan, June 16 (IPR): The Legal Metrology Unit and Consumer Protection Cell under the Food & Civil Supplies Department, Government of Sikkim, organised a one-day awareness programme at Block Administrative Centre, Passingdang, Mangan District, today.
The programme was graced by Zilla Adhyaksha Mangan District Mr Kado Lepcha as the chief guest. Also present were Upadhaksha Ms Sonam Kipa Bhutia, Chairperson, Horticulture, Ms Ongkit Lepcha, OSD, Food & Civil Supplies Department Mr Tashi Thendup Lepcha, OSD Land Revenue & DM Department Mr Ugen Lepcha, DCSO Mangan Mr Palden N Lachungpa, Deputy Director cm CDPO Dzongu Mr Netuk Lepcha, President, MLAS NGO Mr Ugen Lepcha, Zilla and Gram Panchayat Presidents and Members, ICDS staff, and officials and staff from organising department.
DCSO, Food & Civil Supplies Department, Mangan, Mr Palden N. Lachungpa, in his opening address, highlighted the importance of creating awareness on consumer welfare and ensuring the effective implementation of various government schemes. He also briefed the attendees on the provisions and benefits available under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013, along with other initiatives of the Food & Civil Supplies Department. Speaking on ration card related issues, he explained the distinction between Above Poverty Line (APL) and Below Poverty Line (BPL) categories, emphasising that only genuine and eligible beneficiaries are entitled to receive the benefits under the schemes. Stressing the significance of the e-KYC process, he stated that it is essential for verifying beneficiaries and ensuring that the names included in ration cards belong to living and eligible individuals, thereby promoting transparency and preventing misuse of the system.
Joint Director, Legal Metrology Unit and Consumer Protection Cell, Mr Titus Basnett, delivered a detailed presentation on the Legal Metrology Act and consumer rights, stressing the importance of fair trade practices, accurate weights and measures, and consumer awareness in safeguarding public interest. He informed the gathering that no shopkeeper is permitted to sell products above the Maximum Retail Price (MRP) and any violation can invite strict action from the department, including the imposition of penalties and fines upon receipt of a valid consumer complaint. He also encouraged consumers to make use of the designated grievance redressal mobile application to report unfair trade practices and urged them to preserve purchase receipts and bills, as these serve as vital evidence while lodging complaints and help ensure timely redressal.
Addressing the programme, Chief Guest Mr Kado Lepcha commended the Food & Civil Supplies Department and the Legal Metrology Unit for organising the awareness programme at the grassroots level and for their continued effort to educate the public on consumer welfare and protection. Encouraging the participants to remain aware of their rights and responsibilities, he urged them to make responsible use of government welfare schemes, report unfair trade practices whenever necessary and actively contribute towards building a more informed and empowered society.
An interactive session allowed participants to engage directly with the officials, clarify doubts and discuss issues related to consumer protection and public distribution services.
OSD, Food & Civil Supplies Department, Mr Tashi Thendup Lepcha addressed the gathering and underscored the need for greater public participation in ensuring transparency, accountability and awareness in service delivery.
A representative from LPG Mangan, Ms Ekta S***a, highlighted the importance of completing KYC to ensure uninterrupted LPG services and accurate consumer records. The official also briefed the gathering on the IndianOil One mobile application and shared customer care contact details, encouraging consumers to make use of these facilities for easy access to LPG-related services.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Ms Phurmit Lepcha of Dikchu Food Godown. The event was conducted by Food Inspector Mr Sonam Gyaltsen Bhutia.
