Counterfeit, smuggled goods erode social values, endanger public health, and impacts economy: DGP, Goa Police
February 02, 2026
PANAJI, 02 February 2026: FICCI-CASCADE (Committee Against Smuggling and Counterfeiting Activities Destroying the Economy) today organised a Capacity Building Programme for Police Officers on ‘Prevention of Counterfeiting and Smuggling’ at the GO's Institute Hall, GRP Camp, Altinho Panaji, Goa.
Bringing together over 200 senior police officials and industry representatives, the programme provided a platform for in-depth discussions on the growing menace of counterfeiting, smuggling, and illicit trade and their far-reaching consequences.
Mr Alok Kumar, Director General of Police, Goa extended his support for the initiative and highlighted the importance of such capacity-building programmes in strengthening the competence, readiness, and on-ground effectiveness of police personnel in combating illicit trade.
Mr Kumar stated, “Law enforcement agencies must recognise the deep and widespread presence of counterfeit and smuggled goods in our markets. These illegal activities harm the economy, erode social values, endanger public health, and ultimately affect the quality of life of our citizens.”
Mr Deep Chand, Advisor, FICCI CASCADE and Former Special Commissioner of Police, New Delhi, said, “Counterfeiting and smuggling have several detrimental effects. They result in significant losses for legitimate businesses, erode consumer trust, and deprive the nation of crucial revenue, thereby hindering overall growth and development. Moreover, the associated health risks of such illicit products are a grave concern, posing a direct threat to the well-being of the public.”
Mr Ashish Paul, Vice President- Corporate Affairs, ITC Ltd. stated, “Counterfeit trade and smuggling drain India’s economic potential. If we could cut illicit trade by just 50%, it would unlock unprecedented economic growth, generate employment, and boost legitimate businesses, reinforcing India’s journey toward self-reliance. Generating awareness among young enforcement officials along with the discerning consumers is the need of the hour. It will strengthen enforcement mechanisms, promote informed decision-making and meaningfully contribute towards the Prime Minister’s vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat by 2047.”
Underscoring the pivotal role of law enforcement in society, Mr Santosh Desai, Superintendent of Police/ Principal, Police Training School, Valpoi, Goa, said, “Police officers must view crimes through the eyes of the victims to fully grasp the extent of their suffering. It is imperative to acknowledge every cognizable offence, uphold the highest moral and legal standards, and ensure timely and appropriate action against those who violate the law.”
As per the report by FICCI CASCADE titled ‘Challenging Landscape of Illicit Trade: How Changing Factors of Consumption Affect Illicit Markets in 5 Key Industries in India’, the size of illicit market in the five key sectors- FMCG packaged goods, personal and household care goods, alcohol, tobacco, and textiles & apparel has been estimated at about Rs. 7.97 lakh crore. The report highlights that the illicit market size for textiles and apparel stands at Rs 4,03,915 crore, accounting for over 50 percent of the total illicit trade. Additionally, illicit markets for - FMCG (Packaged foods) and FMCG (Personal and Household Care Goods are estimated at Rs 2,23,875 crore and Rs 73,813 crore, respectively.
The report highlighted that illicit trade is undermining legitimate businesses, distorting market competition, and significantly reducing the government’s tax revenues in the five mentioned sectors. The impact of illicit trade is particularly severe in industries historically subjected to higher tax regimes, such as tobacco and alcohol.
FICCI CASCADE has been working closely over the years with government, industry, enforcement officials, legal fraternity, consumer organizations and the youth to create awareness about the detrimental impact of counterfeiting and smuggling. Among other activities, FICCI CASCADE has been regularly engaging with law enforcement agencies including police, customs and paramilitary organizations engaged in border protection in sensitizing them on the gravity of the problem.