Punjab Special DGP outlines strategies to curb illicit trade
Illicit trade is a complex challenge with far-reaching economic and social consequences, said Amardeep Singh Rai, Special Director General of Police, Punjab, while addressing a capacity building programme for police officers on ‘Tackling Counterfeiting and Smuggling: Strategies for Effective Enforcement’ on Thursday.
“Counterfeiting and smuggling not only undermine legitimate businesses and government revenues but also threaten consumer safety and fuel illegal networks. Tackling these challenges requires robust enforcement, continuous capacity building and coordinated action among government agencies, law enforcement authorities and industry stakeholders,” Rai said.
The programme, organised by FICCI-CASCADE, brought together senior police officers, Government officials, legal experts and industry representatives to deliberate on the growing threat of counterfeiting, smuggling and other forms of illicit trade.
Mohammed Tayyab, Secretary, Jails Department, Government of Punjab, highlighted the need for institutional preparedness. “As illicit trade networks become increasingly sophisticated, enforcement agencies must remain equipped with the knowledge, skills and tools required to effectively detect, investigate and prevent such crimes,” he said.
Ankurjeet Singh, Additional Secretary Home, Government of Punjab, noted that counterfeiting and smuggling are now linked to organised criminal activities.
“Effective enforcement today requires a combination of intelligence-led policing, inter-agency cooperation and awareness of emerging trends. Strengthening the capabilities of frontline officers is critical to safeguarding the economy and protecting citizens,” he added.
Deep Chand, Advisor, FICCI CASCADE and Former Special Commissioner of Police, New Delhi, said illicit trade inflicts significant losses on legitimate businesses and distorts fair market competition.
“Through sustained engagement with enforcement agencies and policymakers, FICCI CASCADE is committed to strengthening awareness and building institutional capacity,” he said.
Mr Ashish Paul, Vice President - Corporate Affairs, ITC Ltd., underscored the role of partnerships. “The fight against counterfeiting and smuggling cannot be won by any single stakeholder. Meaningful progress requires close cooperation between industry, law enforcement agencies and government institutions,” he said.
Technical sessions at the programme examined the economic and social impact of counterfeiting and smuggling, their links with organised crime, and the legal framework for enforcement. Discussions also covered intelligence-sharing, brand protection, consumer awareness, and industry-enforcement collaboration. FICCI CASCADE said the Punjab programme is part of its ongoing efforts to equip enforcement personnel with practical knowledge to tackle counterfeiting, smuggling and related economic offences.
