Following the brutal attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives, India has intensified its measures against Pakistan by enforcing a complete ban on Pakistani imports and restricting maritime operations involving the neighbouring country.
In a significant move, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways issued a directive prohibiting all Pakistan-flagged vessels from entering Indian ports. Simultaneously, Indian-flagged ships are now barred from docking at any port in Pakistan.
The ministry’s directive, citing national security reasons, stated that the decision was taken “to ensure the safety of Indian assets, cargo, and related infrastructure, in public interest and for the interest of Indian shipping.”
It emphasized that this restriction, which takes effect immediately, will remain active until further notice. “The objective of the Act is to foster the development and ensure the efficient maintenance of an Indian mercantile marine, in a manner best suited to serve national interests,” the ministry added. “A ship bearing the flag of Pakistan shall not be allowed to visit any Indian port, and an Indian-flagged ship shall not visit any ports of Pakistan.”
The government noted that any potential exemptions will be considered individually.
Earlier on the same day, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry issued a separate notification enforcing a complete halt on all imports from Pakistan — both direct and indirect — in light of escalating tensions.
“Direct or indirect import or transit of all goods originating in or exported from Pakistan, whether or not freely importable or otherwise permitted, shall be prohibited with immediate effect, until further orders,” the notification said.
“This restriction is imposed in the interest of national security and public policy. Any exception to this prohibition shall require prior approval of the Government of India,” it further stated.
These measures mark a sharp escalation in India’s economic and maritime stance against Pakistan.
