India has rolled out “Operation Sindoor,” a focused surveillance mission aimed at preventing Pakistan-made goods from quietly entering Indian markets via Gulf nations. With this, Indian agencies will now keep a sharp watch on imports coming from Middle Eastern countries, particularly where there’s a suspected attempt to re-route Pakistani items by altering their origin tags.
Sources reveal that the Centre suspects certain products, especially cosmetics and food items, originally manufactured in Pakistan are being exported to India through Gulf nations after being re-labeled to bypass restrictions. The new operation will ensure that all such imports are thoroughly scrutinized at entry points, especially in states like Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Kerala where trade links with the Gulf are heavy.
This move comes amid strained diplomatic ties between India and Pakistan and is aimed at economically discouraging indirect trade. Customs, intelligence, and port authorities have been asked to coordinate actively and flag any suspicious consignments for deeper inspection.
Under ‘Operation Sindoor,’ high-alert orders have been issued across ports, and barcode verification, product tracing, and importer scrutiny will be intensified. The goal is not just to stop illegal imports, but also to plug any regulatory loopholes that could aid such trade.
By tightening this channel, India hopes to send a clear message, economic backdoors won’t be tolerated amid deteriorating bilateral ties.
