Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Dec: Union Minister of State for Finance, Pankaj Chaudhary, emphasized the government’s goal of ensuring that honest taxpayers can conduct business with dignity while making India’s land, air, and waterways inaccessible and risky for illegal trade. He spoke at the 68th Founding Day celebrations of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) on Thursday, praising the agency’s long-standing dedication to safeguarding the nation’s economic borders and trade infrastructure since its establishment in 1957.

Chaudhary lauded DRI for effectively tackling global challenges, adapting to technological changes, and countering organised international crime networks while maintaining efficiency and dedication across all operations. CBIC Chairman Vivek Chaturvedi also commended DRI for its professionalism and pivotal role in securing legitimate trade, urging officers to continue leveraging technology, risk management tools, and global partnerships to strengthen India’s border security.

At the event, DRI Director General Abhai Kumar Srivastav reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to operational excellence and ethical standards. He highlighted efforts to dismantle smuggling syndicates and curb illicit funds that could otherwise be exploited by anti-national groups, threatening public order and national security.

During the ceremony, DRI released its annual flagship publication, the Smuggling in India Report 2024–25, which outlines trends in illicit trade, enforcement achievements, emerging challenges, and policy recommendations.

The celebration also hosted 30 international delegates from 15 countries participating in the 10th Regional Customs Enforcement Meeting (RCEM), underlining India’s growing collaboration with global enforcement agencies in combating transnational smuggling. As it enters its 69th year, DRI reaffirmed its mission to protect India’s borders, secure economic interests, and uphold the highest standards of integrity.