A pioneer in the fields of consumer rights and economic policy advocacy, Pradeep S. Mehta founded the Consumer Unity & Trust Society (CUTS International) in 1983, starting with minimal resources and operating out of a garage in Jaipur.
Today, CUTS International has evolved into a global NGO with a presence in six overseas centres in Washington DC, Geneva, Accra, Lusaka, Nairobi, and Hanoi, along with four offices in India, including the headquarters in Jaipur.
Called the ‘Father of the Consumer Movement’ in Rajasthan, Mehta's key achievements and contributions include his involvement in the adoption of the Consumer Protection Act in 1986, the Competition Act in 2002, and his membership in various committees of the Competition Commission of India. He also played a pivotal role in drafting a national competition policy in 2011 and served as the Chairman of the Planning Commission's Task Force on National Competition Policy.
Mehta's funding approach has been remarkably successful, securing support from the Government of India, foreign governments, and various foundations in India, the USA, and Europe.
Mehta's candidature for awards is compelling for several reasons, including his establishment of a unique global NGO headquartered in a Tier-2 city, his role in building new institutions, his advisory positions at both national and international levels, his prolific contributions as a writer and speaker, and his strong global advocacy for economic equity and social justice.
Pradeep S. Mehta's leadership and dedication continue to make a profound impact on consumer rights, economic policy, and social justice, making him a deserving candidate for recognition and awards in his field.