The consumer movement in India originated as a social force in the 1960s to protect and promote consumer interests against unethical and unfair trade practices. It emerged due to rampant food shortages, hoarding, black marketing, and adulteration of food and edible oil.

During the initial phase till the 1970s, consumer organisations were largely engaged in writing articles and holding exhibitions. They formed groups to investigate malpractices in ration shops and overcrowding in road passenger transport. The movement arose from consumer dissatisfaction as there was no legal system to protect them from exploitation in the marketplace.

A significant milestone was achieved in 1986 when the Indian government enacted the Consumer Protection Act (COPRA). India observes 24 December as National Consumers' Day to commemorate this event. India is one of the countries with exclusive authority for consumer redressal.

The movement has made progress in terms of numbers. Today, there are more than 2000 consumer groups in the country. However, a critical examination reveals that only about 50-60 groups are well organised and recognised for their work, indicating that the movement still has a long way to go.

Internationally, the UN Guidelines for Consumer Protection adopted in 1985 provided a foundation for the movement. The movement has succeeded in bringing pressure on business firms and government to correct unfair business conduct and has shifted the responsibility of ensuring quality of goods and services on sellers.