How Much Has the National Consumer Helpline Facilitated in Refunds Across Various Sectors?
Synopsis
In an impressive achievement, the National Consumer Helpline (NCH) has facilitated refunds amounting to Rs 52 crore across 31 sectors, resolving over 79,000 consumer grievances. This initiative underscores the effectiveness of the NCH in addressing consumer complaints promptly and efficiently, providing critical support across the nation.
Key Takeaways
NCH facilitated Rs 52 crore in refunds across 31 sectors.
Addressed 79,521 consumer grievances in nine months.
Highest number of complaints were from the e-commerce sector .
Refunds achieved at the pre-litigation stage .
NCH operates in 17 languages for consumer accessibility.
New Delhi, Feb 17 (NationPress) The National Consumer Helpline (NCH) has successfully facilitated refunds totaling Rs 52 crore across 31 sectors by resolving 79,521 consumer complaints related to refund requests during the past nine months (from April 2025 to January 31, 2026).
The refunds were achieved at the pre-litigation level, allowing consumers to receive prompt assistance without needing to approach Consumer Commissions, as stated by the Department of Consumer Affairs on Tuesday.
The e-commerce sector saw the highest volume of complaints, with 47,743 grievances leading to refunds exceeding Rs 36 crore. Following closely was the Travel & Tourism sector, which saw refunds surpassing Rs 4 crore facilitated through the Helpline. Collectively, the top five sectors, including electronics and general insurance, made up over 85 percent of the total refund amount.
Refund-related complaints in the e-commerce sector came from various regions across the nation, highlighting the broad reach and accessibility of the National Consumer Helpline as a comprehensive consumer grievance platform, as noted in the statement.
Examples of successful interventions by the National Consumer Helpline include a case where a consumer faced repeated delivery rescheduling without receiving a refund from an e-commerce company. After NCH's involvement, the refund was processed.
In the automobile sector, one consumer dealing with unresolved diagnostic issues with their vehicle received a full refund following NCH's intervention. Another instance involved a premium paid for an insurance policy that was never issued, which was refunded after NCH addressed the issue.
In yet another scenario, a customer ordered food through an online delivery service but received incorrect items along with inadequate quantities. Despite multiple follow-ups, the company did not respond. With the help of the National Consumer Helpline (NCH), a successful refund was achieved.
The National Consumer Helpline (NCH) serves as a centralized platform for consumers nationwide to lodge grievances in 17 languages. It can be accessed through:
• Toll-free number: 1915
• INGRAM portal
• WhatsApp / SMS: 8800001915
• Email: nch-ca[at]gov[dot]in
• NCH Mobile App
• Web Portal
• UMANG App
NCH is a key initiative that plays a crucial role in delivering effective, accessible, and timely grievance redressal under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.
It operates through a convergence model, where grievances are digitally forwarded to companies for resolution within specified timelines, with ongoing monitoring and consumer feedback tracking.
Point of View
The National Consumer Helpline's efforts reflect a vital step towards enhancing consumer rights and protection. The significant refunds facilitated underline the importance of accessible grievance redressal mechanisms, demonstrating a commitment to serving the interests of consumers across the nation.
NationPress
8 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the National Consumer Helpline?
The National Consumer Helpline (NCH) is a government initiative that provides consumers with a platform to register grievances related to various sectors, offering support in multiple languages.
How can I register a complaint with NCH?
You can register a complaint via the toll-free number 1915, through the INGRAM portal, or by using the NCH mobile app, among other methods.
What types of grievances can be addressed by NCH?
NCH can assist with a wide range of grievances, including issues related to e-commerce, travel, insurance, and electronics.
Is there a fee for using the National Consumer Helpline?
No, the National Consumer Helpline is a free service provided to consumers across the country.
How effective is the NCH in resolving consumer complaints?
NCH has proven to be effective, facilitating significant refunds and resolving numerous grievances without the need for litigation.
