Press Release

FICCI CASCADE organises inter-school competition to empower youth against smuggling & counterfeiting

August 22, 2025

• The theme of the ‘Zero Evasion’ competition was - ‘Empowering Youth to Combat Smuggling & Counterfeiting’
• 600+ students from 75 plus schools participated in the competition

NEW DELHI, 22 August 2025: Recognising the power of youth as change-makers and future leaders, FICCI CASCADE (Committee Against Smuggling and Counterfeiting Activities Destroying the Economy) continues to engage young minds in the fight against illicit trade. In line with this commitment to sensitise youth on the adverse impact of smuggling and counterfeiting, FICCI CASCADE organised the 7^th edition of its flagship youth programme: Zero Evasion – “Empowering Youth to Combat Smuggling & Counterfeiting” at FICCI, Federation House, New Delhi.

The programme witnessed the enthusiastic participation of 600+ students from over 75 leading schools across Delhi/NCR, who came together to showcase their views and creativity through three engaging competitions – Elocution, Poster-Making, and Jingle Writing.

The distinguished jury included Mr. Anil Sinha, Former Director, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Think Tank Member, FICCI CASCADE; Mr. Sanjeev Tripathi, Former Chief, Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) and Think Tank Member, FICCI CASCADE; and Mr. P. C. Jha, Advisor, FICCI CASCADE and Former Chairman, Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs.

Mr. P. C. Jha, Advisor, FICCI CASCADE and Former Chairman, Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs, said, “The youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow, and their awareness and involvement in curbing smuggling and counterfeiting is crucial. Such illegal activities not only endanger public health and safety but also drain the economy. Through these youth-driven initiatives, FICCI CASCADE is striving to build a generation that is informed, vigilant, and committed in safeguarding the nation’s economic integrity.”

Mr. Anil Sinha, Former Director, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Think Tank Member, FICCI CASCADE, added, “Illicit trade cannot be curbed by enforcement alone; it requires a united and collective effort. School children, as the future torchbearers of society, have a vital role to play in shaping fair and ethical trade practices, and therefore, it is necessary to help them understand the impact of smuggling and counterfeiting on the economy and development of the nation. FICCI CASCADE has been consistently working towards this objective, organising annual competitions to raise awareness and inspire students to spearhead a youth-led movement against this growing menace.”

Mr. Sanjeev Tripathi, Former Chief, Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) and Think Tank Member, FICCI CASCADE, said, ““Illegal trade threatens not just today’s economy but the very future of our nation. The youth, as catalysts of change, must recognise their power to reshape this narrative. By choosing to be alert consumers and conscious citizens, they can reject illicit practices and champion a culture rooted in ethics, responsibility, and integrity, paving the way for a stronger, brighter tomorrow.”

FICCI CASCADE is a dedicated forum on the agenda of combating smuggling and counterfeiting. Over the years, it has consistently championed awareness campaigns highlighting the detrimental impact of illicit trade on consumers and the economy. Recognising the power of young voices, the committee’s youth awareness programs have created avenues for students to actively engage and contribute to this cause. By collaborating with policymakers, industry leaders, enforcement agencies, media, and extensively with the youth, FICCI CASCADE continues to strengthen its movement through impactful interschool and intercollege competitions across the country.

List of Winners:

FICCI Media Division