Date: 17 November 2023

Venue: Auditorium, Delhi Police Academy, Jharoda Kalan

FICCI CASCADE organized a workshop titled ‘Enhancing Measures Against Counterfeiting and Smuggling’ on November 17th at the Delhi Police Academy, Jharoda Kalan, specifically designed for the police officers of Delhi and Goa. The primary objective was to cultivate a dialogue emphasizing the critical need for law enforcement officers to enhance their proficiency in addressing diverse aspects of illicit trade and eliminating such activities.

The workshop saw enthusiastic participation, with more than 450 officers from Delhi and Goa police. This endeavor served as a pivotal platform for providing law enforcement personnel with indispensable skills and knowledge, empowering them to effectively counter the detrimental impacts of counterfeiting and smuggling. The resounding success of the program underscores a dedicated commitment to constructing a more resilient and vigilant defense against these illicit practices.

Speaking at the programme, Mr. Vijay Singh, Director, Delhi Police Academy highlighted the profound impact of illicit trade on children, families, and future generations. Stressing the critical necessity for law enforcement to possess an in-depth understanding of laws combating this menace, he drew attention to the significant threat posed by criminals engaged in smuggling and tax evasion, leading to substantial revenue losses. Mr. Singh underscored the importance of officers being able to distinguish between counterfeit and authentic products, particularly through effective brand identification.

Recognizing officers as the backbone of law enforcement, he urged them to actively survey markets, collaborate with agencies, and gather intelligence. Mr. Singh emphasized the essential steps of raising market awareness, fostering collaboration with agencies, and utilizing resources such as FICCI CASCADE to curb the trade of illicit goods. He underscored the vital role of officers in effectively combating the escalating threat of illicit trade and called for a strengthened commitment to this mission.

Mr Uma Shankar, Deputy Director, Delhi Police Academy expressed that a proficient and empowered police force plays a vital role as the frontline defense against challenges such as counterfeiting, smuggling, and other illicit activities. He emphasized that capacity-building workshops represent an investment in fortifying the resilience of our society, upholding the rule of law, and safeguarding the well-being of citizens.

Sharing his perspectives on the socio-economic repercussions of counterfeiting and smuggling, Mr. Deep Chand, Advisor, FICCI CASCADE and Former Special Commissioner of Police, New Delhi, highlighted that illicit activities lead to substantial losses for legitimate businesses, undermine consumer trust, and deprive the nation of essential revenue, thereby impeding overall growth and development. Furthermore, Mr. Chand underscored the grave concern of associated health risks linked to counterfeit products, posing a direct threat to the well-being of the public.

Col Atul Yadav, General Manager- North, Industry Affairs, ITC Ltd. highlighted the extensive implications of counterfeiting and smuggling on a nation’s social and economic fabric. He noted that these activities lead to a state of disorder and corruption, exploiting vulnerabilities that allow criminals to advance their illicit operations. Col Yadav emphasized the significant increase in the seizure of illicit cigarettes, rising from Rs. 141.91 crores in 2015 to Rs. 6659.63 crores by 2023, highlighting the urgent need to address revenue losses.

He stressed the importance of recognizing and identifying illicit products as an essential step in preventing tax evasion. The notable extent of smuggling in the country is a cause for great concern, and he opined the imperative for nations to prioritize strategies that empower law enforcement agencies to effectively combat illegal trade.

enforcement agencies to effectively combat illegal trade.
Through regular interactions with the enforcement agencies, FICCI CASCADE strives to foster a deeper understanding of the challenges posed by counterfeiting and smuggling. The committee is committed to providing essential insights and expertise to empower law enforcement in effectively addressing and mitigating the impact of illicit trade activities. This proactive engagement serves as a necessary step in building a collaborative and informed front against the multifaceted challenges posed by such illegal practices.