Should the UN Recognize February 11 as 'International Anti-Smuggling Day'?
Synopsis
Expert Anil Rajput advocates for the UN to declare February 11 as 'International Anti-Smuggling Day' to combat rising global smuggling. This initiative seeks to unify nations in the fight against illicit trade, emphasizing the need for enhanced enforcement strategies and international cooperation.
Key Takeaways
February 11 proposed as 'International Anti-Smuggling Day' Rising smuggling trends globally India's strong mutual customs agreements Shift to network-based disruption in enforcement Advanced technology to fight smuggling
New Delhi, Feb 11 (NationPress) Anil Rajput, the Chairman of FICCI CASCADE, one of India's leading industry organizations, expressed on Wednesday that the United Nations ought to designate February 11 as 'International Anti-Smuggling Day'. This initiative aims to enhance global awareness regarding the smuggling crisis.
In a discussion with IANS during an event in the capital, Rajput highlighted the alarming rise of smuggling activities both within India and worldwide.
He emphasized, “We call upon the United Nations to officially recognize February 11 as 'International Anti-Smuggling Day' to foster awareness and unite nations in combating smuggling challenges on this date.”
During the event, experts noted that India has established 42 mutual customs cooperation agreements and is currently negotiating 21 additional ones with key trading partners. This has bolstered India's international framework for combating smuggling.
Mohan Kumar Singh, a Member (Compliance Management) at the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), remarked that enforcement strategies should evolve from incident-based seizures to comprehensive network disruption.
He elaborated that efforts must center on disrupting networks by targeting financial transactions, logistics facilitators, and international connections that uphold the illegal trade ecosystem.
Singh pointed out that smuggling has transformed into an organized, tech-driven crime with severe implications for national security and economic stability.
Regarding recent announcements in the Union Budget, he mentioned that advancements such as AI-powered image analytics and enhanced container scanning at major ports will boost enforcement capabilities, while GST simplification and customs reforms aim to encourage compliance and diminish the allure of illicit trade.
He showcased the significant enforcement achievements in the first three quarters of the fiscal year, which included the confiscation of approximately 500 kg of gold, 150 million illicit cigarette sticks, over 20 metric tons of red sanders, and around 120 kg of cocaine.
Further seizures included approximately 50 kg of heroin, 350 kg of amphetamines, and 3,700 kg of hydroponic cannabis at airports, as stated.
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Point of View
It's crucial to support initiatives that enhance international collaboration against smuggling. Recognizing February 11 as an 'International Anti-Smuggling Day' could galvanize global efforts to combat this serious issue. The time has come for nations to unite and address the rising tide of smuggling that threatens economic stability and national security.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of declaring February 11 as 'International Anti-Smuggling Day'?
The aim is to raise global awareness about smuggling and encourage international cooperation to combat this issue.
Who proposed the idea for 'International Anti-Smuggling Day'?
Anil Rajput, Chairman of FICCI CASCADE, proposed the idea to the United Nations.
What measures is India taking to combat smuggling?
India has signed 42 mutual customs cooperation agreements and is negotiating 21 more to strengthen its enforcement framework.
How has smuggling evolved in recent years?
Smuggling has become more organized and driven by technology, posing significant risks to national security.
What recent enforcement achievements has India made against smuggling?
In the current fiscal year, India has seized significant amounts of illicit goods, including gold, cocaine, and various drugs.
