HYDERABAD: Direct selling should be understood in a way it should be and there is a dire need to facilitate clear understanding of the concept to make an impact on lives of Micro Entrepreneurs, Bejon Kumar Mishra, International Consumer Policy Expert, founder, Consumer Online Foundation said.
Speaking at a seminar on direct selling and the impact on the livelihood of micro entrepreneurs organised by FICCI here Monday, Mishra said, “This is the first time someone is asking for a policy or guidelines because there is no clarity on what direct selling is, everyone is interpreting it in his own way. To clear the confusion and distinguish it with Ponzi and chit fund schemes, a set of guidelines should be made by recommending an immediate amendment to the governing legislation.”
He also said that consumer policies and rights are only on paper but in reality no one really bothers about them and no justice is done.“We should not tolerate any injustice against the consumer, the seller should be made responsible to any concerns that consumer has and refund should be offered immediately if he is not satisfied with the product bought,” Mishra said.
Rajat Banerji, chairman, FICCI Direct Selling Committee, said that direct selling is one of the oldest forms of sale in the world and its main aim is not only selling but to create Micro Entrepreneurs. “In less than two decades, it has provided self-employment opportunities to more than 50 lakh people in India as direct sellers. The industry holds large potential not only for the economic development, but also social development of the country. With the growth in the industry, it is projected to employ nearly 1.8 crore direct sellers by 2025,” Rajat said.
According to industry estimates, direct selling turnover is estimated to be around Rs 8,000 crore contributing taxes of Rs 1,000 crore to the exchequer.