Courses
Courses for Kids
Free study material
Offline Centres
More
Store Icon
Store

What is the Full Form of MRTP Act? Meaning & Key Facts

ffImage
hightlight icon
highlight icon
highlight icon
share icon
copy icon
SearchIcon

Is the MRTP Act Still in Force or Replaced by the Competition Act?

The full form of MRTP Act is Monopolies and Restrictive Trade Practices Act, which played a key role in shaping India's business environment. This legislation was designed to prevent monopolistic, restrictive, and unfair trade practices, making it vital for students of business studies, Indian polity, and anyone preparing for competitive exams like UPSC. In this article, we explore the MRTP Act’s full meaning, its objectives, and its significance in the context of Indian economic policies.


Acronym Full Form Main Role
MRTP Act Monopolies and Restrictive Trade Practices Act Law enacted to regulate and prevent monopolistic, restrictive, and unfair trade practices in India’s economy.

Impact of MRTP Act in Indian Economy

The MRTP Act had a major impact on India’s economic landscape. It aimed to promote fair competition, safeguard consumer interests, and prevent exploitation by large corporations. By controlling monopolistic behavior, the Act ensured healthier business practices across industries.


  • Prevented growth of monopolies and misuse of market power.
  • Protected consumers from unfair and restrictive business tactics.
  • Encouraged smaller and new businesses to compete fairly.

Role of MRTP Act in Business Regulation

The MRTP Act played a crucial regulatory function in Indian commerce. It provided a legal framework for the government to supervise and intervene if businesses engaged in unhealthy competition or manipulated the market to the detriment of consumers and smaller players.


  • Banned restrictive trade practices like price-fixing, market sharing, and bid-rigging.
  • Promoted transparency in trade dealings and contracts.
  • Set up the MRTP Commission to investigate and act against violations.

Relevance for Students & Exam Preparation

Understanding the MRTP Act’s full form and purpose is essential for students, especially those preparing for exams like UPSC, business studies, and general knowledge sections. It is also frequently cited in commerce and legal courses, making it a must-know for academic success.


  • Frequently asked in UPSC, SSC, and other competitive exams.
  • Key reference for Indian business law, economic reforms, and consumer protection topics.
  • Highlights the shift from regulation to pro-competition policies in India.

Additional Context: Abolishment and Replacement

Is the MRTP Act still in force? The MRTP Act was abolished in 2009 and replaced by the Competition Act, 2002. The new law focuses on promoting competition rather than just curbing monopolies, responding to the evolving needs of India’s open economy.


  • The MRTP Commission’s powers were transferred to the Competition Commission of India (CCI).
  • Modern legislation addresses broader issues like cartels, abuse of dominance, and mergers.
  • Candidates must know this legislative transition for accurate answers in exams.

Key Role of MRTP Act

The MRTP Act was crucial in laying the foundation for modern competition law in India. It shaped policies that protected consumers and encouraged innovation by limiting concentration of economic power, making its study vital for all business and law students.


Page Summary

In conclusion, the MRTP Act, or Monopolies and Restrictive Trade Practices Act, was a landmark law in Indian business regulation. Its principles continue to impact current policies through the Competition Act. Knowing its full form and history is essential for students, exam aspirants, and professionals in business, law, and general studies.


Related Resources


FAQs on What is the Full Form of MRTP Act? Meaning & Key Facts

1. What is the full form of the MRTP Act in business studies?

The full form of the MRTP Act is the Monopolies and Restrictive Trade Practices Act. This act, crucial for business studies, aimed to control monopolies and unfair trade practices in India.

2. Why was the MRTP Act replaced by the Competition Act?

The MRTP Act, enacted in 1969, became outdated and was considered insufficient to address the complexities of a globalized market. The Competition Act of 2002 replaced it, adopting a more modern approach to competition law that aligns with international standards. The Competition Act focuses on promoting competition, preventing anti-competitive practices, and ensuring fair trade practices.

3. Is the MRTP Act still enforced in India today?

No, the MRTP Act is not enforced in India. It was repealed and replaced by the Competition Act, 2002. The Competition Act now governs competition-related matters in India.

4. What are some examples of restrictive trade practices under the MRTP Act?

Restrictive trade practices under the MRTP Act included: price fixing among competitors; bid rigging; limiting production to raise prices; and market allocation agreements amongst firms. These actions were considered detrimental to fair competition and consumer welfare.

5. Who implemented the MRTP Act, and when was it abolished?

The MRTP Act was implemented by the Indian government in 1969. It was effectively abolished when the Competition Act, 2002, came into force, replacing the MRTP Act and its regulatory framework.

6. Can you download notes on the MRTP Act full form in PDF format?

While I cannot directly provide downloadable PDFs, many educational websites offer study materials on the MRTP Act and its successor, the Competition Act, 2002. A simple online search for "MRTP Act notes PDF" should yield helpful results.

7. What is the purpose of the MRTP Act?

The primary purpose of the MRTP Act was to curb monopolies and restrictive trade practices in India. It aimed to promote fair competition and prevent businesses from engaging in practices that harmed consumers or stifled economic growth.

8. What does the MRTP stand for?

MRTP stands for Monopolies and Restrictive Trade Practices. This acronym refers to the act enacted to regulate and control unfair business practices in India.

9. What is the difference between the MRTP Act and the Competition Act?

The Competition Act, 2002 replaced the MRTP Act. While both aimed to ensure fair competition, the Competition Act is more modern, encompassing broader aspects of competition law and aligning with international best practices. The MRTP Act was more focused on preventing monopolies, while the Competition Act promotes competition as a whole.

10. How does the MRTP Act relate to Indian economic reforms?

The MRTP Act was part of India's early steps towards economic liberalization and regulation. Although later superseded, it laid some groundwork for subsequent reforms aimed at fostering a more competitive and efficient market economy in India. The Competition Act represents a significant continuation and modernization of these reform efforts.

11. What is the MRTP Act 1965?

There is no MRTP Act of 1965. The Monopolies and Restrictive Trade Practices Act was enacted in 1969. This detail is crucial for accuracy in any exam setting.