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.