The correct option is 1 and 3 only.
Explanation
The question addresses the statutory rights of consumers within an economy, specifically focusing on the mandatory disclosure of information by manufacturers and the jurisdictional scope of transparency laws like the RTI Act.
Statement 1 is Correct:
It is mandatory for manufacturers to display specific details, including the expiry date, on medicine packets. This requirement is enforced under regulatory frameworks such as the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011. These rules ensure consumers are aware of the safety and validity of pharmaceutical products.
Statement 2 is Incorrect:
The Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005 applies to "Public Authorities" (government bodies and institutions substantially financed by the government). It does not apply exclusively to the private sector. In fact, private companies generally fall outside the direct ambit of the RTI Act unless they are performing a public function or are substantially funded by the government.
Statement 3 is Correct:
Under the Consumer Protection Act, consumers possess the Right to be Informed about the particulars of goods and services, including quality, quantity, potency, purity, standard, and price. This right is designed to protect consumers against unfair trade practices and to facilitate informed choices in the market.
Key Takeaway:
The Right to Information Act, 2005 is a tool for transparency in public administration, whereas the Right to be Informed is a specific consumer right regarding commercial goods and services secured under the Consumer Protection Act.