AUTO RALLY Fight Smuggling and Counterfeiting

6^th December 2025|New Delhi

FICCI CASCADE (Committee Against Smuggling and Counterfeiting Activities Destroying the Economy) organised the third edition of its Annual Auto Rally on 6^th December 2025, which was flagged off by Mr. Manoj Tiwari, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha, Northeast Delhi. The rally aimed to generate widespread awareness about the adverse impact of smuggled and counterfeit goods on India’s economy, public health, and national security.

Mr. Manoj Tiwari, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha, Northeast Delhi, emphasised that smuggling is not merely an economic offence but a silent and dangerous threat that fuels organised crime and even terrorism. He noted that while a bomb blast shocks the nation in an instant, the financing for such acts often begins quietly through the sale of smuggled and illegal goods. He further cautioned that many citizens remain unaware that purchasing products without a bill or opting for cheaper, smuggled items inadvertently strengthens the very forces that undermine India’s safety and stability.

Mr. Tiwari appealed to every Indian to take a clear and conscious pledge to never purchase goods that enter the market through illegal channels. Emphasising that even if legitimate products cost slightly more, consumers should always choose tax-paid and bill-certified goods, he noted that such choices go beyond supporting honest businesses. He underscored that rejecting smuggled goods is a powerful act of patriotism, one that protects the nation, safeguards citizens, strengthens the economy, and weakens the criminal networks that misuse public money to fuel illegal trade and terrorism.

Mr. Tiwari commended FICCI CASCADE for highlighting the issue and mobilising communities in such an impactful manner. He stated that the rally should serve as a strong and unequivocal message that illegal trade will not be allowed to flourish in the country. Urging citizens to act as vigilant partners in this collective mission, he expressed confidence that sustained public participation would help build a safer, stronger, and truly Viksit India.

Mr. Anil Rajput, Chairman, FICCI CASCADE, highlighted that illicit trade remains one of the most serious threats to the nation’s economic stability and social well-being. He opined that the substantial tax losses resulting from smuggling and counterfeiting deprive the government of crucial resources that should otherwise support essential public services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure, thereby directly impeding national development.

He further emphasised that smuggling exploits consumers by flooding markets with unsafe, substandard, and unregulated products that pose significant risks to public health and safety. Through initiatives such as the Auto Rally, FICCI CASCADE seeks to raise public awareness, encourage collective action, and strengthen the resolve to combat this menace. He expressed his appreciation to all auto pullers for their support and reiterated the need for strong enforcement, heightened consumer awareness, and a unified societal commitment to curb illicit trade in all its forms.

Mr. Deep Chand, Advisor, FICCI CASCADE and Former Special Commissioner, Delhi Police emphasised that illicit trade extends far beyond an economic offence and poses a serious threat to national security. He pointed out that proceeds from smuggling are often diverted to finance organised crime and terrorist activities, making every smuggled product in the market a setback for legitimate businesses, a loss to the public exchequer, and a potential risk to public health. He added that this rally was aimed at empowering citizens and encouraging their active participation as crucial partners in the collective fight against illicit trade.

The rally witnessed the participation of over 300 auto-rickshaws, vibrantly branded with anti-smuggling and anti-counterfeiting messages, moving in a coordinated convoy from FICCI House, Tansen Marg, through prominent locations including Connaught Place and Barakhamba Road, ensuring wide public visibility and engagement. Auto drivers, commuters, and passers-by were actively encouraged to support lawful trade practices, refrain from purchasing counterfeit goods, and spread awareness about the detrimental impact of illicit trade on livelihoods and the broader economy.