New Delhi, February 11: Anil Rajput, Chairman of FICCI Cascade, has called on the United Nations to declare February 11 as ‘International Anti-Smuggling Day’ to raise awareness about smuggling on a global scale.
In an interview with a news agency, Rajput highlighted the increasing prevalence of smuggling not just in India but worldwide. He emphasized the need for a dedicated day to unite countries in voicing their concerns against this pressing issue.
During an event organized by FICCI Cascade in the national capital, experts noted that India has signed 42 mutual customs cooperation agreements and is currently negotiating 21 additional agreements with key trading partners. This has significantly strengthened the country’s international enforcement framework against smuggling.
Mohan Kumar Singh, a member of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), stated that enforcement strategies should evolve from incident-based seizures to network-based disruptions. He stressed the importance of targeting financial flows, logistics facilitators, and international relationships that sustain illegal ecosystems.
Singh pointed out that smuggling has transformed into an organized, technology-driven economic crime that directly impacts national security and economic stability.
Referencing recent announcements in the central budget, Singh mentioned that AI-driven image analytics and enhanced container scanning capabilities at major ports will bolster enforcement efforts. He also noted that GST simplification and customs reforms will continue to promote compliance and reduce incentives for illegal trade.
He highlighted significant enforcement outcomes in the first three quarters of the current financial year, including the seizure of nearly 500 kilograms of gold, around 150 million illegal cigarette sticks, over 20 metric tons of red sanders, and approximately 120 kilograms of cocaine.
Additionally, the statement noted that airports have seen seizures of about 50 kilograms of heroin, approximately 350 kilograms of amphetamines, and around 3,700 kilograms of hydroponic cannabis.
Leave a Comment