In News:

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), under the Ministry of Finance, continues its nationwide anti-smuggling campaign titled “Operation Fire Trail”, aimed at curbing the illegal import of hazardous foreign-origin firecrackers into India. The operation focuses on intercepting smuggling networks that violate India’s trade regulations, safety norms, and environmental standards.

About Operation Fire Trail

• Nature of Operation:Operation Fire Trail is an intelligence-driven enforcement initiative designed to detect and prevent the illegal entry of non-compliant Chinese firecrackers into India. These pyrotechnic materials often contain harmful chemicals, posing severe risks to public health, safety, and the environment.
• Implementing Agency:The operation is carried out by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI)—India’s apex anti-smuggling agency.
• Objectives:

• To dismantle organised smuggling syndicates involved in routing foreign firecrackers into India using false declarations.
• To enforce compliance with licensing norms mandated by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) under the Explosives Rules, 2008.
• To strengthen India’s customs surveillance and safeguard national security.

Recent Seizure at Nhava Sheva Port

In one of the largest seizures during the ongoing operation, DRI intercepted a 40-foot container at Nhava Sheva port that had originated from China. The consignment, falsely declared as containing "leggings," was destined for ICD Ankleshwar.

A detailed examination revealed:

• 46,640 pieces of smuggled Chinese-origin firecrackers.
• Total estimated value: ?4.82 crore.
• Firecrackers were concealed behind a thin layer of garments to evade detection.

Subsequent raids led to the confiscation of incriminating documents exposing the smuggling syndicate’s modus operandi. A key suspect from Veraval, Gujarat, was arrested, marking a major breakthrough in the case.

Legal and Regulatory Framework

• Import of firecrackers into India is classified as “Restricted” under the ITC (HS) classification of the Foreign Trade Policy.
• Legitimate imports require:
  • Valid DGFT licence, and
  • Approval from PESO under the Explosives Rules, 2008.
• Smuggling of non-compliant fireworks bypasses these safeguards and introduces hazardous substances into the domestic market.

Significance of the Crackdown

• Protection of Public Safety: Smuggled firecrackers are often made using unsafe chemical compositions. Their uncontrolled entry poses serious risks of fire, explosions, and injury.
• Safeguarding Port and Supply Chain Infrastructure: Hazardous consignments threaten critical port infrastructure, warehouse safety, and logistics operations.
• Strengthening Enforcement Capacity: Operation Fire Trail enhances India’s intelligence-led enforcement, boosts customs vigilance, and disrupts transnational smuggling networks.
• Environmental Protection: Many imported Chinese firecrackers release toxic pollutants, violating environmental norms. Curtailing their inflow supports India’s pollution-control efforts.
• Supporting Domestic Manufacturing: The operation discourages cheap illegal imports and promotes domestic, compliant firecracker production aligned with safety and environmental regulations.