Trader 2.0 Pledge: Lower Prices, Higher Respect

Mewar Bachao Manch Launches Phase 2 of Local Economy Protection Movement in Udaipur

Udaipur:
A new wave to protect local dignity, livelihoods, and the city’s economy has begun in the City of Lakes. With the rapid rise of dark stores and instant delivery apps, local trade, employment opportunities, and the roots of Udaipur’s economy have come under serious threat. Recognising this challenge, Mewar Bachao Manch has launched the second phase of its public movement after the success of its widely discussed campaign, “Udaipur’s Money in Udaipur.”

The newly announced Phase 2 carries the slogan:
“Trader 2.0 Pledge: Lower Prices, Higher Respect.”

Phase 2 Dedicated Directly to Consumers

Founder President Abhishek Pandey stated that while the first phase focused on engaging local traders, Phase 2 is dedicated entirely to the people of Udaipur. The aim is to create awareness among consumers about the hidden impact of instant delivery platforms and dark stores on the city’s economy and employment.

“Behind flashy discounts and offers, these apps include multiple hidden costs, often making products more expensive than local markets. At the same time, local shopkeepers are losing customers, threatening livelihoods and community-based commerce,” Pandey explained.
He added, “This is not just a market battle; it is a mission to protect the soul of Mewar and local employment.”

Three-Point Agenda of Phase 2

Elaborating on the strategy, Pandey said Phase 2 will move forward on a three-point agenda:

1. Educating citizens about the negative impact of instant stores on Udaipur’s economy and jobs

2. Exposing misleading advertising tactics and hidden charges used by dark stores

3. Encouraging consumers to support local traders and make informed purchasing decisions

Strong Support from Local Traders

Pandey expressed satisfaction over the support received from traders during Phase 1. Under the campaign, the Manch connected with shopkeepers in over 10 major markets across the city, including University Road, Thokar, Subhash Circle, Sector 14, Chungi Naka, Surajpol, Maldas Street, Tuta Darwaza Market, Bohra Ganesh Ji, and Pahada.

Traders in these areas signed a three-point pledge based on:

• Fair pricing

• Better quality

• Respectful and courteous customer behaviour

Several traders also announced free home delivery for local customers.

On-Ground Awareness Schedule Announced

Patron Surendra Doshi and Vice President Mayank Jani shared the detailed on-ground action plan:

• January 15–20: Pamphlet distribution and engagement with trader associations

• January 25–30: Public interaction and feedback programs at Fatehsagar, Surajpol, Court Chauraha, Krishi Mandi, University Road, and Udaipole

• February 1–10: Workshops with various trader organisations

• February 11–14: Creative events and announcement of Phase 3 roadmap

Consumer Support Pledge to Be Introduced

Campaign representatives Manoj Gharbada, Secretary Dipesh Sharma, Joint Secretary Chirag Meghwal, CA Mahesh Gupta, Nidhi Gupta, and Dr. Shikha Doshi informed that a “Consumer Support Pledge” will also be introduced in Phase 2.

Under this initiative, consumers will commit that if local traders offer fair prices and respectful service, they will prioritise shopping locally over online platforms.

The movement aims to strengthen community-based commerce and ensure that Udaipur’s money circulates within Udaipur, safeguarding jobs, dignity, and the city’s economic future.