Dimapur: Brigadier SK Sheoran, YSM, SM, Deputy Inspector General, Assam Rifles Training Centre and School, Dimapur, Nagaland, said that the government has given the power to the Assam Rifles under the Narcotic Drugs & Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act to keep a check on drug trafficking in the North-Eastern states.  

Addressing the 'Capacity Building Programme for Officers of Assam Rifles on Prevention of Counterfeiting and Smuggling' organised by FICCI's Committee Against Smuggling and Counterfeiting Activities Destroying the Economy (CASCADE), Brigadier Sheoran stated that smuggling and counterfeits hinder progress, economic growth and create safety hazards for consumers. As a result, significant steps should be taken against illicit traders to tackle the menace, he said.

He added that drugs, cigarettes, arms and ammunition and betel nuts are a few products which are frequently smuggled into our country. Therefore, there is a need for stringent punishment and a fear of the law to curtail the problem of illicit trade. He said the only way to stop smuggling at the border is to stay alert and watch everything coming into the country, especially through the porous and unfenced border with Myanmar. 

While giving an overview of the socio-economic impact of counterfeiting and smuggling, Deep Chand, Advisor, FICCI CASCADE and Former Special Commissioner of Police, New Delhi, said, "Assam Rifles' proactive vigilance in intercepting the movement of smuggled products is a definitive step towards putting the fear in the hearts of smugglers who deal in illicit trade activities." 

He appreciated the efforts of Assam Rifles in successfully intercepting illicit cigarettes, liquor, currency, and contrabands, among others, in the Northeastern states. Furthermore, he noted that the capacity-building program seeks to sensitise the officers of Assam Rifles on the issue and amplify the need for a greater focus on combatting smuggling and related crimes at the border. 

Shamin Marwah Anand, Legal Manager, Marico Limited, said: "The consequences of counterfeits are considerable, and they affect the industry, consumers, government and society. Individual consumers purchasing counterfeit goods are denied the use of safe and genuine products, especially if they believe they are purchasing legitimate products." 

In addition to the legitimate loss of sales, companies may suffer a loss of reputation from poorly performing counterfeit products. Finally, entities like the government may suffer from loss of revenue, and societies may suffer risks to public health and safety, she added.