Past Events

22^nd August 2025, Friday | FICCI, Federation House, New Delhi

FICCI CASCADE has been at the forefront of efforts to raise awareness about the serious threats posed by smuggling and counterfeiting—issues that adversely affect public health, safety, and the economy. Over the years, the initiative has involved key stakeholders including policymakers, industry leaders, enforcement agencies, media, and a vital force for change: the youth.

Recognising the potential of young minds to drive meaningful change, FICCI CASCADE has engaged students through a range of creative and impactful activities—ranging from interschool and intercollege competitions to youth festivals, poster and slogan contests, debates, and elocution events. These platforms aim to inform, inspire, and encourage students to advocate for a safer and more transparent society.

As part of its continued commitment to combating illicit trade, FICCI CASCADE is organising the 7th Edition of the Inter-School Competition on the theme “Zero Evasion – Empowering Youth to Combat Smuggling and Counterfeiting” on 22nd August 2025 at FICCI, Federation House, Tansen Marg, New Delhi.

The programme will bring together students from various schools across Delhi and the NCR to participate in the following competitions:

1. Elocution Competition

2. Poster Making Competition

3. Jingle Writing Competition

This youth-driven initiative aims to foster greater awareness, creativity, and commitment among students in addressing the challenges of smuggling and counterfeiting, contributing to the broader goal of eliminating illicit trade.

List of Winners:

28^th July 2025 | 10.30 am – 01.00 pm | Focus State: Rajendra Nagar, New Delhi

Illicit trade has rapidly grown into a major threat to economic stability, public health, and industrial growth. It fuels the rise of organised criminal networks, endangers consumers through unregulated and unsafe products, and harm legitimate businesses by operating outside legal frameworks. These unlawful practices not only drain government revenues but also erode public trust in formal markets and institutions.

In the face of this evolving menace, the role of law enforcement becomes more critical than ever. Police forces serve as the frontline shield—tasked with identifying, intercepting, and dismantling illicit networks. Their success hinges not just on vigilance, but also on access to the right knowledge, modern tools, and continuous capacity building.

Understanding this urgent need, FICCI CASCADE has remained steadfast in its efforts to support and empower enforcement agencies across the country. As part of this commitment, CASCADE is organising a capacity-building programme titled “Illicit Trade, Fraud & Organized Crime: Building Enforcement Capacity for a Safer Marketplace” on 28th July 2025 at Specialized Training Centre, Delhi Police, Rajendra Nagar, New Delhi. The workshop will provide police officers with practical insights into the mechanics of illicit trade and equip them with effective strategies to combat such crimes with greater precision and impact.

This initiative represents a meaningful step towards a more secure and transparent market environment. By strengthening the capabilities of those who protect our economic and social order, we aim to create a more resilient enforcement ecosystem, better prepared to tackle the complex challenges posed by illicit trade in today’s world.

14th July 2025| Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir

India continues to grapple with the far-reaching consequences of smuggling and counterfeiting, an underground web that not only undermines our legitimate economy and industries but also endangers the lives and safety of consumers. Alarmingly, a significant portion of the population affected by these illicit activities remains unaware of the true scale and severity of the threat. To effectively address the issue, sensitization and public engagement are imperative.

As part of our ongoing commitment to raise widespread awareness about the adverse impacts of smuggling and counterfeiting on our economy, society, as well as health and safety of the citizens, FICCI CASCADE successfully orchestrated an Auto Rally in Srinagar, Jammu amp; Kashmir on 14 th July 2025. This initiative witnessed over 200 auto rickshaws forming a convoy as they traversed a designated route which commenced from Nehru Park, Boulevard Road, Srinagar, amplifying the message of awareness and collective action across the city.

Flagging off the Auto Rally, Mr. Nasir Aslam Wani, Advisor to the Honble Chief Minister, emphasized that smuggling and counterfeiting are insidious threats that penetrate markets, undermine legitimate businesses, drain government revenues, and endanger public safety. He mentioned that the impact of these illegal activities may not always be visible, but the consequences are grave.

He lauded the rally as a vital initiative in raising public awareness and promoting consumer vigilance. Mr. Wani further stressed the urgent need for widespread public sensitization and a shift in societal attitudes to curb the problem of counterfeit and smuggled goods in daily trade.

Reaffirming his commitment to the cause, he added, “We stand united in the fight against illicit trade and are dedicated to advancing this mission through sustained efforts, stronger collaborations, and meaningful action across Jammu and Kashmir.”

Shri Tanvir Sadiq, Member of the Legislative Assembly, Jammu and Kashmir, highlighted that illicit trade poses a significant threat to the economy, endangers livelihoods, and puts public safety at serious risk. He emphasized that in a region like Jammu and Kashmir, where efforts are consistently being made towards peace, stability, and development tackling counterfeiting and smuggling must be a collective priority.

He further underscored the importance of robust enforcement mechanisms and widespread public awareness as critical tools to safeguard the interests of legitimate businesses and secure a safer and more promising future for the youth of the region.

Mr. Mushtaq Ahmed Burza, Chair, FICCI J&K State Council accentuated that in a region like Jammu & Kashmir, where economic stability and employment are key pillars of progress, curbing illicit trade is vital in ensuring growth, trust, and supporting lawful enterprise.

Mr. Deep Chand, Advisor to FICCI CASCADE and Former Special Commissioner of Police, New Delhi, asserted that illicit trade is far more than just an economic concern, it poses a direct threat to national security. He noted that the proceeds from smuggling often fuel organized crime and even terrorist activities, making it a grave issue that demands urgent attention. "Every smuggled product in the market undermines legitimate businesses, drains government revenue, and endangers public health," he remarked. Highlighting the significance of the Auto Rally in Srinagar, Mr. Chand said the initiative is a call to action, aimed at engaging and empowering citizens to take an active role in the fight against illicit trade.

During the rally, several impactful messages were shared to raise awareness about the serious implications of illicit trade. At the heart of the campaign were four powerful slogans, each emphasizing a key consequence: illicit trade causes job losses, finances terrorist activities, fuels organized crime and poses significant health hazards.

The auto rally was meticulously coordinated, following a route that spanned Nehru Park, Boulevard Road →Proceed straight along Boulevard Road→ SKICC →Royal Springs Golf Course gate and then ultimately concluding its journey at Nehru Park.

The Auto Rally in Srinagar stands as a significant step forward in FICCI CASCADE’s ongoing efforts to engage with communities, local authorities, and the general public in the fight against illicit trade. By fostering awareness and encouraging public resistance to smuggling and counterfeiting, initiatives like this play a crucial role in building a more informed and vigilant society. Through sustained outreach campaigns, FICCI CASCADE continues to strengthen consumer awareness and mobilize nationwide support to eradicate the menace of illicit trade.

30 June 2025| Ahmedabad, Gujarat

FICCI CASCADE has been at the forefront of raising awareness about the grave threats posed by illicit trade. Recognizing the widespread consequences of counterfeiting and smuggling on public health, safety, and economic well-being, CASCADE has been conducting pan-India seminars to educate stakeholders and mobilize action. In line with this direction, FICCI CASCADE organized a seminar titled, “Illicit Trade in Focus: State – Level Action Against Counterfeiting & Smuggling” on 30th June 2025 at Ahmedabad, Gujarat.

Delivering the keynote address, Mr. Pranesh Pathak, Chief Commissioner of Customs, Ahmedabad Zone, highlighted the escalating threat posed by organized smuggling operations in the wake of India’s economic growth and expanding global trade. He apprised that as the nation’s economy continues to expand, it has become an attractive target for sophisticated illicit syndicates. From gold, liquor, and narcotics to cigarettes and high-end luxury watches, there has been a marked surge in attempts to illegally transport goods across India’s borders, added Mr. Pathak.

Mr. Pathak opined that such activities not only result in significant revenue losses but also pose grave risks to national security, public health, and the legitimate economy. Citing an example, he highlighted how Godhra Customs seized over 8 million counterfeit cigarettes, psychotropic substances valued at over Rs. 150 crore and luxury watches worth Rs. 13 crores. He mentioned that these substantial seizures, serve as a stark reminder of the audacity and evolving tactics employed by illicit trade networks to undermine the nation’s economic integrity.

Mr. Neeraj Kumar Badgujar, Additional Commissioner of Police, Ahmedabad City, Gujarat stated that illicit trade not only strengthens criminal networks but also poses serious threats to public safety and economic stability. He underscored the need for law enforcement agencies to remain proactive through intelligence-led policing, enhanced inter-agency coordination, and active community engagement. Mr. Badgujar further said that raising public awareness is a vital component in the collective fight against smuggling and counterfeiting.

Mr. P C Jha, Advisor, FICCI CASCADE and Former Chairman, Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs, in his presentation titled “Outlining the Landscape of Illicit Trade Practices – Analysis & Implications,” highlighted that smuggling thrives on cost arbitrage driven by high indirect taxes and regulatory loopholes. He explained that when duties on products such as tobacco, liquor, and gold are excessively high, they create strong incentives for illegal trade, which undermines legitimate businesses and leads to significant revenue losses for the government. Mr. Jha emphasized that the disparity between legal and illegal market prices not only distorts fair competition but also exposes consumers to counterfeit and substandard goods, posing serious risks to public health and safety.

Emphasizing the urgent need for a comprehensive strategy to combat illicit trade, Mr. Deep Chand, Advisor, FICCI CASCADE and Former Special Commissioner of Police, New Delhi, while chairing a panel discussion on policies to prevent counterfeiting and smuggling, stated that counterfeiting and smuggling are not just economic crimes but they are serious threats to national security, public health, and consumer trust. We need coordinated policy reforms, real-time intelligence sharing, and stronger public-private collaboration, as well as raising consumer awareness to stop these traffickers. Such an approach rooted in both prevention and enforcement are key to protecting legitimate businesses and safeguarding India’s economic future.

The panel also featured distinguished speakers who brought diverse perspectives to the discussion. The other speakers included Mr. Shrikant Awachar, Additional Director, Directorate of Revenue Intelligence, Ahmedabad Zonal Unit; Mr. Ashish Paul, Vice President- Corporate Affairs, ITC Ltd. and Ms. Anindita Mehta, CEO, Consumer Education & Research Centre.

Bringing in a local perspective and reinforcing the industry-government partnership, Mr. Parth Desai and Dr. Jaimin Vasa, Members of the FICCI Gujarat State Council, shared their insights and emphasized the need for collective action at the state level to effectively combat the menace of illicit trade.

The programme witnessed an enthusiastic participation from over 200 stakeholders, including industry experts, government officials, enforcement agencies, and informed consumers. Their active engagement contributed to meaningful dialogue and knowledge sharing, while also benefiting from insights on the emerging developments, challenges, and collaborative strategies to combat illicit trade.

21^st May 2025 | Trivandrum, Kerala

FICCI CASCADE organized a seminar titled “Proactive Approaches to Combat Counterfeiting and Smuggling” on 21st May, Trivandrum, Kerala aimed at addressing the growing threat posed by illicit trade. The seminar brought together policymakers, enforcement agencies, industry representatives, and civil society to discuss collaborative strategies to curb counterfeiting and smuggling, which have far-reaching implications for public safety, economic stability, and national security.

While speaking at the seminar, Shri. P Rajeeve, Hon’ble Minister for Law, Industries, and Coir, Government of Kerala, emphasized that the proliferation of counterfeit and smuggled goods poses significant risks to society. These illegal activities endanger public health, obstruct economic growth, and in certain cases, contribute to the funding of organized crime and terrorism. The Minister underscored the need for a coordinated, multi-stakeholder approach that involves government entities, industry associations, and civil society working together to safeguard national interests and the welfare of citizens.

He further reaffirmed the Kerala government’s strong commitment in addressing this issue through collaborative measures involving law enforcement, industry partners, and local communities. The Minister highlighted the adoption of advanced technologies such as drone-based surveillance for real-time monitoring, especially in vulnerable coastal and border regions. He also commended FICCI CASCADE for its ongoing efforts in raising awareness and mobilizing public support to reject and resist the circulation of counterfeit and smuggled products.

Sharing his perspective on the economic impact of illicit trade, Shri. A P M Mohammed Hanish, Principal Secretary, Department of Industries & Commerce, Government of Kerala stated that illicit trade is not only harming legitimate businesses but also significantly undermining government revenues. Shri Hanish opined that the state’s firm resolve to combat this threat through a comprehensive strategy—strengthening surveillance mechanisms, deploying advanced technologies at key checkpoints, and fostering seamless inter-agency coordination. He commended the initiative, saying, FICCI CASCADE’s seminar is a timely intervention that will elevate public consciousness and strengthen collaboration among all stakeholders in the fight against smuggling.

While delivering the welcome address, Dr M I Sahadulla, Immediate Past Chairman, FICCI Kerala State Council emphasized on the need to address existing policy gaps, enforcement challenges, limited public awareness, and emerging digital vulnerabilities in the battle against illicit trade. He emphasized that leveraging technological advancements such as authentication mechanisms, traceability frameworks, and AI-driven surveillance will be instrumental in curbing counterfeiting and smuggling. Dr. Sahadulla further highlighted that consumer education must form the cornerstone of any effective strategy. “An informed consumer,” he mentioned, “serves as the first line of defense against illicit goods.” Fostering a culture rooted in awareness, ethical consumption, and shared responsibility, he added, is vital to sustaining long-term impact.

Mr. P C Jha, Advisor, FICCI CASCADE and Former Chairman, Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs shared a detailed presentation on “Outlining the Landscape of Illicit Trade Practices – Analysis & Implications,” offering deep insights into the evolving dynamics and far-reaching consequences of illicit trade. Mr. Jha noted that India’s robust economic growth has given rise to a dynamic and increasingly aspirational consumer base. Between 1999–2000 and 2022–23, rural and urban consumption at current prices surged 7.6 times driven by higher incomes, rapid urbanisation, and improved access to education and economic opportunities. However, this surge in aspirations has not always been matched by corresponding purchasing power, creating fertile ground for illicit trade and counterfeiting. He also mentioned that smugglers are exploiting price disparities and regulatory gaps to tap into this unmet demand.

Mr. Baby Mathew Somatheeram, Chairman & Managing Director, Somatheeram Ayurveda Group & Convenor FICCI Tourism Committee stated that that Kerala too has fallen victim to the growing menace of counterfeiting, smuggling, and contrabands. These persistent threats have far-reaching consequences, affecting industries, law enforcement agencies, consumers, the government, and the economy at large. The expanding market for illicit goods is spreading rapidly and poses one of the most significant challenges facing Indian industry today.

A key highlight of the seminar was a thought-provoking panel discussion on “Policies to Prevent Counterfeiting and Smuggling,” where Mr. Deep Chand, Advisor, FICCI CASCADE and Former Special Commissioner of Police, New Delhi, offered valuable insights into the growing reach of the illicit market. He shed light on the grey market’s rapid expansion in rural India, particularly among the emerging middle- and lower-income segments. Once primarily confined to urban, high-income areas, counterfeiting and smuggling have now made deep inroads into rural regions, underscoring the expanding scale and reach of these illicit activities. Mr. Chand noted that both the central government and the Government of Kerala have taken proactive measures to curb this growing threat.

Dr. Tiju Thomas, Commissioner of GST, Customs and Central Excise cited that there is a strong connection between gold smuggling and money laundering in the country. Gold being a low volume, high value item which is easily concealable, transportable and quickly disposable, finds wide acceptance among money laundering syndicates. He also pointed to a notable rise in the number of cigarette seizures in 2023–2024, with a total of 90.98 million units confiscated. Adding further depth and perspective to the discussion, the panel featured several distinguished experts from diverse sectors. The esteemed panellists included; Dr. Arul R B Krishna, IPS, Superintendent of Police, Railways, Kerala; Mr Kalliyoor Sasi, Vice President, Kerala Film Chamber, General Secretary, Kerala Film Society and Mr Anish P Joseph, Regional Business Manager Kerala – STN, HMD Global Oy.

The seminar saw a gathering of over 150 industry captains, consumer forum representatives, government officials, and various stakeholders from across sectors. Their active participation and diverse perspectives underscored a shared commitment in tackling the growing menace of illicit trade through collaborative dialogue and actionable policy solutions.

Theme: Building Strategic Alliances for a Unified Global Response against Illicit Trade
Date: April 25, 2025

“Illicit trade is not merely an economic scourge— it is a multidimensional threat with global repercussions,” asserted Mr. Yashvardhan Kumar Sinha, Former High Commissioner of India to the United Kingdom, during an insightful FICCI CASCADE Twitter Space session. Speaking on the theme “Building Strategic Alliances for a Unified Global Response against Illicit Trade,” Mr. Sinha unpacked the complex nature of illicit markets and their growing linkages to organized crime and terrorism.

Mr. Sinha highlighted that the rapid evolution of criminal networks, leveraging shell companies, digital currencies, and global supply chains, has enabled illicit trade to flourish across borders. “What begins as counterfeit goods or smuggling operations often escalates into a broader threat, one that undermines national economies, endangers consumer safety, and erodes the rule of law,” he said.

From counterfeit goods and smuggling to expansive black-market operations, illicit trade undermines economic stability, corrodes institutional trust, and weakens the rule of law. Enforcement agencies face mounting challenges due to the scale, complexity, and sophistication of these networks. “The sprawling nature of international supply chains, coupled with the immense volume of global trade, makes inspection and monitoring a formidable task,” Mr. Sinha remarked.

He further noted that many enforcement bodies, particularly in developing countries, are constrained by limited resources, personnel shortages, and fragmented regulatory frameworks, these factors severely hamper their ability to track, disrupt, and prosecute illicit trade. “It’s not just about identifying illegal goods; it’s about navigating a maze of concealment and legal hurdles,” he said. Mr. Sinha emphasized that specialized training programmes, such as those led by FICCI CASCADE, are essential to strengthening enforcement capabilities and bridging critical operational gaps.

Drawing attention to the security implications, Mr. Sinha stressed the nexus between illicit trade and terrorism financing. “Illicit trade isn’t just draining public finances, but it is also empowering extremist groups with untraceable funds,” he warned. Porous borders and weak surveillance mechanisms make it easier for smuggled goods and dirty money to move undetected, with devastating consequences for regional stability.

Mr. Sinha called for a globally synchronized response built on intelligence-sharing, technological integration, and policy harmonization. “A coordinated framework—rooted in trust, secure communications, and real-time access to actionable intelligence is essential,” he said. “Standardized data formats and mutual legal assistance agreements can go a long way in turning fragmented efforts into unified action.”

Commending FICCI CASCADE’s proactive role, he stated, “Platforms like these are vital, not only for raising awareness, but also for translating concern into concrete enforcement and policy responses. By bringing together industry, law enforcement, and policymakers, FICCI CASCADE is building the foundation for a stronger, more resilient fight against illicit trade.”

The session concluded with a strong message: countering illicit trade requires not just reactive measures, but sustained global collaboration, consumer education, and a robust investment in institutional capacity. “Strategic alliances and shared responsibility are the keys to dismantling the economic and security threats posed by this shadow economy,” Mr. Sinha affirmed.

Thursday, 27^th March, 2025

FICCI CASCADE hosted an engaging Twitter Space session titled “The Cost of Crime: How Organized Crime and Illicit Trade Weaken Economies” on Thursday, 27th March. The session featured Mr. Prem Mahadevan, Senior Analyst, Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime. Drawing on his extensive experience, Mr. Mahadevan offered profound insights into the alarming surge of organized criminal activities and their intricate ties to illicit trade. He emphasized how these nefarious networks pose a serious threat to economic resilience, national security, and the overall well-being of societies across the globe.

Mr. Prem Mahadevan provided an in-depth analysis of the sophisticated mechanisms employed by organized crime networks to exploit financial systems. He explained how these networks skilfully launder vast sums of illicit money, often using layers of complex financial transactions to obscure the origin of funds and evade detection by regulatory authorities. Shell companies, offshore accounts, and digital currencies are among the tools frequently used to move and clean dirty money across borders with relative anonymity.

Mr. Mahadevan opined that significant loss of tax revenue for governments is due to illicit trade. When goods are smuggled, counterfeited, or sold through underground channels, legitimate businesses suffer, and governments are deprived of the taxes and duties that would have been collected through legal trade. This not only weakens public finances but also distorts fair market competition and undermines the formal economy. He further highlighted how illicit trade often serves as a key funding source for terrorist organizations and insurgent groups. The proceeds from such illegal activities are frequently funnelled into operations that threaten national and international security. These financial links between criminal and terrorist networks create a dangerous ecosystem that is both resilient and adaptive.

Mr. Mahadevan also shed light on the pivotal role played by the GITOC in addressing the far-reaching economic impact of organized crime and illicit trade. As an international network of experts, GITOC works to analyze, expose, and disrupt criminal networks by supporting evidence-based policy responses, enhancing global collaboration, and strengthening institutional capacities. At the same time, raising consumer awareness about the hidden costs of purchasing counterfeit and smuggled goods, such as funding criminal enterprises, and weakening national economies can significantly reduce demand. By combining global intelligence, technological innovation, and informed consumer behaviour, the international community can take stronger, more coordinated action to disrupt illicit trade and weaken the foundations of organized crime networks.

The discussions not only illuminated the multifaceted impacts of organized crime and illicit trade but also underscored the urgency of adopting a comprehensive and collaborative response. Beyond the immediate economic losses and threats to national security, the session highlighted how these illicit activities erode public trust in institutions, undermine legal businesses, and fuel broader societal instability.

The virtual programme garnered enthusiastic participation from over 40,000 attendees worldwide.

25^th March, 2025

Venue: Auditorium, Delhi Police Academy, Jharoda Kalan

FICCI CASCADE organized a capacity building programme for the police officers of Delhi on “Prevention of Counterfeiting and Smuggling” on 25th March 2025 at the Delhi Police Academy, Jharoda Kalan. The primary objective of the training programme was to foster meaningful dialogue highlighting the urgent need for law enforcement officers to strengthen their capabilities in tackling various dimensions of illicit trade and working toward its eradication.

Speaking at the programme, Mr. Asif Mohammad Ali, IPS, Additional Commissioner of Police and Joint Director, Delhi Police Academy, highlighted that illicit activities such as counterfeiting and smuggling pose significant challenges for law enforcement agencies. He stressed the need for police officers to recognize the prevalence of counterfeit and smuggled goods, which are widely available in the market. These unlawful practices have a profound impact on the social, mental, and overall well-being of citizens, added Mr. Ali.

Mr. Ali talked about the importance of empathy in policing, stating that law enforcement officers must put themselves in the victims position to genuinely understand their pain and suffering. He affirmed that it is the responsibility of police officers to identify every cognizable offense, uphold both moral and legal obligations, and take appropriate legal action against those who break the law. Emphasizing the vital role of law enforcement in preserving public safety, Mr. Ali added that officers must remain vigilant and proactive in preventing such crimes, thereby protecting societal well-being and maintaining law and order.

Mr. Yogesh Malhotra, Assistant Director, Delhi Police Academy stated that a skilled and empowered police force is the first line of defense against threats such as counterfeiting, smuggling, and other illicit activities. Training workshops play an essential role in strengthening their capabilities, upholding the rule of law, and safeguarding the well-being of society.

Sharing his perspectives on the socio-economic repercussions of counterfeiting and smuggling, Mr. Deep Chand, Advisor, FICCI CASCADE and Former Special Commissioner of Police, New Delhi mentioned that counterfeiting and smuggling have several detrimental effects. They result in significant losses for legitimate businesses, erode consumer trust, and deprive the nation of crucial revenue, thereby hindering overall growth and development. Moreover, the associated health risks of counterfeit products are a grave concern, posing a direct threat to the well-being of the public.

Mr. Ashish Paul, Vice President- Corporate Affairs, ITC Ltd. stated that counterfeit trade and smuggling drain India’s economic potential. Cutting illicit trade by even 50% could unlock significant economic growth, generate employment, and strengthen legitimate businesses—reinforcing India’s path toward self-reliance. He added that generating awareness among young enforcement officials and informed consumers is crucial. It will enhance enforcement mechanisms, support informed decision-making, and contribute meaningfully to the Prime Minister’s vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat by 2047.

Mr. Priyank Mangal, Regional Legal Manager, HUL accentuated that counterfeiting and smuggling are serious global threats affecting a broad spectrum of industries. These illicit activities not only undermine the integrity of legitimate businesses and deprive governments of critical revenue but also pose significant risks to public health and safety. Moreover, they are often linked to the financing of organized crime and terrorism.

Echoing similar concerns, Mr. Nikhil Shah, Senior Vice President – Legal & Regulatory Affairs, Wagh Bakri Tea Group emphasized that counterfeiting weakens economies and erodes trust in markets. To achieve India’s vision of a $5 trillion economy, the enforcement, industry and government must join hands collectively to eliminate illicit trade, strengthen enforcement, and promote genuine businesses. The fight against counterfeiting is not just a legal or economic battle but it is a mission to build a stronger, more resilient, and empowered India, he added.

The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from over 450 officers in Delhi equipping them with valuable skills and knowledge to address the adverse impacts of illicit trade.

11^th February, 2025, Tuesday | New Delhi

Smuggling is a widespread issue that transcends national borders, affecting countries and regions globally. Despite governments ongoing efforts to curb this illegal trade such as bolstering border security, enforcing stricter trade regulating, international cooperation to dismantle criminal syndicates—smuggling remains a persistent challenge that needs immediate attention. In line with our ongoing efforts, FICCI CASCADE organised its 4 th edition of Anti- Smuggling Day on 11 th February 2025 at Hotel Shangri-La Eros, New Delhi. The conference provided a platform to the stakeholders to engage in meaningful discussions on the evolving nature of smuggling and its impact on economies and societies.

Mr. Mohan Kumar Singh, Member (Compliance Management), Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs while addressing the conference emphasized the numerous challenges law enforcement agencies face in combating smuggling. These challenges include targeting criminal syndicates and identifying the key financiers behind the illegal operations, rather than merely apprehending the carriers. To effectively disrupt smuggling networks, it is crucial to have comprehensive data, specialized skill sets, and advanced tools for data analysis, along with enhanced intelligence coordination.

He highlighted that DRI has taken the initiative to establish an anti-smuggling coordination platform, encouraging all agencies to collaborate, share relevant information, and work collectively to dismantle smuggling operations and apprehend the true masterminds. Furthermore, he mentioned that the United Nations’ recognition of Anti-Smuggling Day will help raise international awareness, strengthening global efforts to combat this issue.

Highlighting the colossal nature of the problem of smuggling in the context of a rising Bharat, Mr. Anil Rajput, Chairman, FICCI CASCADE asserted that along with the government and enforcement agencies it is critical that the consumers increasingly come forward and play their part in the battle against smuggling and illicit trade. He underscored the necessity of educating children and youth by raising awareness about the hazardous impact of smuggling. Furthermore, Mr. Rajput emphasized the pivotal role of advanced technology in combating smuggling and its related activities The synergy of these efforts will pave the way for a strong and enduring response to this formidable challenge.

While speaking on the evolving challenges of smuggling, Mr. Pankaj Kumar Singh, IPS, Former Deputy National Security Advisor, Government of India highlighted how technology, particularly the use of drones, has enabled the creation of new smuggling models with substantial profit margins. He emphasized that the government’s stance is unequivocal—smuggling and infiltration will not be tolerated. Although there have been multiple instances of drones carrying illicit goods being intercepted and shot down, he acknowledged that significant challenges remain due to the vast expanse of India’s borders.

Mr. R.K. Pachnanda, Former Director General, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Indo Tibetan Border Police acknowledged the significance of the fourth annual Anti-Smuggling Day and commended FICCI CASCADE for its dedicated efforts in combating smuggling. He accentuated that illicit trade poses a serious threat to national security, and the government has been actively addressing this challenge by considering the unique geographical and operational complexities of India’s diverse border regions. Mr. Pachnanda mentioned that the government’s proactive approach has strengthened the response of border guarding forces and enforcement agencies, fostering greater coordination among administrative, security, diplomatic, intelligence, and economic bodies.

The panel discussion titled “Unified Enforcement Against Smuggling: Strategies and Cross-Agency Synergies” featured distinguished panellists who discussed the imperative role of technology in enhancing cross-agency collaboration, intelligence sharing, and joint efforts in the battle against smuggling. The panellists included Dr. D P Dash, Former Pr. Director-General, DRI, Former Chairman, Enforcement Committee, World Customs Organisation (WCO) and Think Tank Member, FICCI CASCADE Mr. Amit Mohan Govil, Director General, Central Economic Intelligence Bureau; Mr. Vashishtha Chaudhary, Commissioner of Customs, ICD PPG and other ICDs, Delhi Customs; Colonel Deepankar Das, VSM, Col (Ops and Coord), Assam Rifles.

Another panel discussion titled “Building Alliances with Global Partners to Combat Smuggling – Initiatives and Solutions” brought together a panel of experts, including Ms. Sungita Sharma, Former Special Secretary & Member (Admin), Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs and Think Tank Member, FICCI CASCADE; Mr. Jayant Misra, Expert & Consultant, UNODC; Mr. Yashvardhan Kumar Sinha, Former High Commissioner of India to the United Kingdom; Mr. Hiroyuki Nakano, Senior Director, Regional Intellectual Property Attached for South Asia, JETRO. The discussion focused on strategies for forming a cohesive global alliance to tackle the complex challenges posed by smuggling, including the use of advanced surveillance technologies, data analytics, and artificial intelligence, which can be deployed on a global scale.

In his valedictory remarks, Mr. Brij Bhushan Gupta, Pr. Additional Director General, Directorate of Revenue Intelligence, emphasized that with rapidly evolving threats such as cryptocurrency-based transactions, advanced concealment techniques, and maritime smuggling, enforcement alone is not sufficient. The trade community plays a crucial role in identifying risks, providing data insights, and developing cutting-edge detection technologies. A collaborative approach is the key to staying ahead of illicit networks and ensuring a fair and transparent trade ecosystem.

Mr. P C Jha, Advisor, FICCI CASCADE and Former Chairman, Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs proposed the vote of thanks and urged the UN General Assembly to recognize a global ‘Anti-Smuggling Day.’ He underscored that by uniting governments, law enforcement, industries, and consumers, we can build a strong global movement to dismantle smuggling networks and safeguard economies, public health, and national security.

As a run-up to this year’s Anti-Smuggling Day, and to sensitize the youth on the menace of smuggled goods, FICCI CASCADE had organized a Digital Art Competition on the theme, ‘Stand Against Smuggling’. The competition received an overwhelming response, with an astounding 3,000 entries from across the country, showcasing their remarkable talent and creativity. The initiative seeks to inspire a deeper commitment among the youth to contribute to societal change by championing ethical consumer behaviour and thereby becoming responsible citizens.

The esteemed jury for the competition featured Justice Manmohan Sarin, Former Chief Justice, Former Lokayukta, NCT of Delhi, Chief Justice, High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Judge, High Court of Delhi; Mr. Sanjeev Tripathi, Former Chief, Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) and Mr. P K Malhotra, Former Secretary Law, Ministry of Law & Justice, Government of India. The winners of the competition were felicitated during the conference by the esteemed dignitaries.

The conference witnessed an overwhelming response by more than 350 industry captions, representatives from consumer forums, enforcement agencies, government officials, legal experts amongst others.