ZERO -EVASION: Empowering Youth to Combat Smuggling and Counterfeiting
22nd August 2025, Friday | FICCI, Federation House, New Delhi
Theme: Growing Illicit Trade: Destabilising Economic Welfare
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.
11th Edition MASCRADE 2025
18-19 September 2025 | Hotel Lalit, New Delhi
Theme: Growing Illicit Trade: Destabilising Economic Welfare
Illicit trade remains one of the most pressing global threats undermining economic progress, rule of law, and consumer safety. It is an unfair trade practice that erodes legitimate business, distorts markets, weakens global supply chains, depletes natural resources, and endangers public security.
As economies strive for inclusive and sustainable development, the growing menace of counterfeiting and smuggling continues to destabilize efforts by diverting resources and threatening livelihoods. Consumers, often unaware of the dangers, become the ultimate victims of substandard and unsafe products.
A weak enforcement regime, gaps in legal infrastructure, and low levels of public awareness further fuel the spread of illicit trade. Addressing these challenges requires a robust policy framework, stronger international cooperation, and widespread consumer sensitization.
MASCRADE 2025 calls for coordinated action and strategic interventions to counter these emerging threats. Promoting genuine products, empowering consumers with knowledge, and reinforcing legal deterrence are critical to safeguarding economic welfare and securing the development gains of nations.