DIP: 18.02.38/20261101 
DOI: 10.25215/2455/110138 
Abstract
The rapid growth of e-commerce and digital technologies has significantly transformed commercial transactions in India, making electronic contracts (e-contracts) an essential component of the digital economy. Farmers are increasingly utilizing online platforms for purchasing agricultural inputs, marketing produce, accessing financial services, and availing government schemes. While these developments have enhanced convenience and market accessibility, they have also exposed farmers to various legal and consumer protection challenges, including unfair contractual terms, fraudulent online transactions, defective products, payment-related disputes, and inadequate grievance redressal mechanisms. The present study critically examines the judicial and legislative provisions governing e-consumer protection of e-contracts in India with special reference to farmers of Banaskantha district, Gujarat. The study adopts a descriptive and analytical research design by combining doctrinal legal research with an empirical survey of farmers. Primary data were collected through a structured questionnaire, while secondary data were obtained from statutes, judicial decisions, books, research articles, government reports, and policy documents. The findings reveal that although a majority of farmers actively participate in digital transactions, awareness regarding electronic contracts and consumer protection laws remains limited. The study further indicates that implementation challenges, inadequate digital literacy, and limited access to consumer dispute redressal mechanisms reduce the effectiveness of the existing legal framework. The research concludes that India possesses comprehensive legislative provisions under the Information Technology Act, 2000, the Indian Contract Act, 1872, the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, and the Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Rules, 2020. However, strengthening legal awareness, digital literacy, institutional enforcement, and accessible grievance redressal mechanisms is essential to ensure effective e-consumer protection for farmers. The study contributes to the understanding of the practical application of e-consumer laws in rural India and offers policy recommendations for promoting secure, transparent, and inclusive digital commerce.
The author(s) appreciates all those who participated in the study and helped to facilitate the research process. 
The author(s) declared no conflict of interest. 
ISSN 2455-670X