1st December 2023, Friday| ST. Edmund’s School, Sector-5, Jawahar Nagar, Jaipur

In an endeavour to enhance the awareness among the youth about the perils associated with illicit trade, FICCI CASCADE (Committee Against Smuggling and Counterfeiting Activities Destroying the Economy) organized an interschool competition at St. Edmund’s School, Jawahar Nagar, Jaipur on 1st December 2023. Focused on the theme ‘Role of Youth in Making India Free from Smuggling & Counterfeiting,’ the competition featured three distinct categories: Painting, Speech, and Jingle Writing. The programme garnered an enthusiastic response, with active participation from over 350 students representing more than 30 schools in Jaipur.

The programme not only fostered healthy competition but also provided a platform for young minds to engage in meaningful dialogue about the socioeconomic consequences of smuggling and counterfeiting. As the participants showcased their talents, it became evident that the youth are not just the future guardians of the nation but also formidable advocates for positive change.

Mr Devendra Mohan Mathur, President, Rajasthan State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, Jaipur expressed his firm belief that awareness initiatives such as FICCI CASCADE’s interschool competition play a crucial role in nurturing a generation that remains vigilant against the dangers of illicit trade. Additionally, he extended felicitations to the winners of the interschool competition.

Dr Anant Sharma, Chairman, Consumer Confederation & ICAN emphasized that the use of deceptive or counterfeit products not only has adverse implications for the economy but also presents considerable health risks. The fight against smuggling and counterfeiting not only aligns with the government’s interests but also delivers substantial benefits to both the industry and consumers alike.

Mr P C Jha, Advisor, FICCI CASCADE and Former Chairman of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs expressed the viewpoint that the central challenge associated with counterfeiting and smuggling stems from the inadequate tracking and documentation throughout the entire lifecycle of the goods, spanning from production to consumption. To exemplify, illicit trade within five specific sectors—smartphones, cigarettes, alcohol, packaged foods, and household items, results in an annual financial loss of nearly Rs. 5800 crores. Mr. Jha underscored the importance of collective action to confront the dual threats of counterfeiting and smuggling. Emphasizing the need for raising awareness among the youth about the link between ethical practices and economic integrity, he highlighted that such efforts could contribute to building a stronger nation.

Mr Deep Chand, Advisor, FICCI CASCADE and Former Special Commissioner of Police, New Delhi stated that as the future leaders, it is fundamental for the youth to comprehend the detrimental repercussions of illicit trading from an early stage. He emphasized the responsibility to impart education that equips them to recognize and address the risks posed by this menace, enabling them to make informed choices. Mr. Chand highlighted that by empowering the younger generation, society can make strides towards creating a future free from the scourge of smuggling and counterfeiting.

FICCI CASCADE commends the students for their enthusiastic participation and extends gratitude to the schools that contributed to making this programme a resounding success. The interschool competition stands as a testament to the collective determination to build a society where the youth actively contribute to eradicating the threats posed by illicit trade, ensuring a prosperous and authentic future for India.

List of Winners: