News for 'Directorate-General of Foreign Trade'

Mumbai Father-Son Duo Arrested in Walkie-Talkie, HDD Smuggling Case

Mumbai Father-Son Duo Arrested in Walkie-Talkie, HDD Smuggling Case

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) seized a large consignment of prohibited walkie-talkies and second-hand hard disk drives (HDDs) at Nhava Sheva Port, leading to the arrest of a father-son duo involved in the illegal import.

Mumbai Firms Busted for Importing Banned Walkie-Talkies and E-Waste

Mumbai Firms Busted for Importing Banned Walkie-Talkies and E-Waste

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) seized a large consignment of illegal walkie-talkies and second-hand hard drives at Nhava Sheva Port, leading to the arrest of two individuals.

Punjab Police Nab Suspect In Firearms And Narcotics Trafficking

Punjab Police Nab Suspect In Firearms And Narcotics Trafficking

Rediff.com3 days ago

Punjab Police have arrested a suspect linked to an alleged firearms and narcotics trafficking module, recovering seven sophisticated pistols and 2.1 kg of heroin.

Govt imposes import curbs on all articles of gold, silver, platinum

Govt imposes import curbs on all articles of gold, silver, platinum

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

The Indian government has imposed import restrictions on all forms of gold, silver, and platinum articles to prevent misuse of free trade agreements (FTAs). The restrictions apply immediately, regardless of prior contracts or commitments.

Hampton Sky Realty Claims Innocence After Director's Arrest

Hampton Sky Realty Claims Innocence After Director's Arrest

Rediff.com9 May 2026

Hampton Sky Realty Limited, formerly directed by Punjab minister Sanjeev Arora, has issued a statement asserting its innocence and cooperation with authorities following the arrest of Arora in connection with a money laundering probe.

Walmart's India Sourcing Crosses $40 Billion Mark, Bolstering Export Push

Walmart's India Sourcing Crosses $40 Billion Mark, Bolstering Export Push

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Retail giant Walmart has announced that India has become one of its fastest-growing sourcing hubs globally, with the company having procured over $40 billion worth of goods from the country. This initiative aims to expand supplier capabilities, improve compliance standards, and help Indian manufacturers scale exports worldwide.

Sugar Export Ban Sparks Industry Outcry, Farmer Worries

Sugar Export Ban Sparks Industry Outcry, Farmer Worries

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Indian government's decision to ban sugar exports until September 30 has drawn sharp criticism from the sugar industry and farmer leaders, who fear long-term negative impacts despite the stated aim of controlling domestic prices and ensuring availability.

Govt moves to shield trade as Iran war chokes sea routes

Govt moves to shield trade as Iran war chokes sea routes

Rediff.com5 Mar 2026

With the Iran war escalating sharply and crisis deepening in the global energy market, India on Monday unveiled a coordinated plan to support exporters and shippers caught in the fallout.

Govt extends Foreign Trade Policy by 6 months

Govt extends Foreign Trade Policy by 6 months

Rediff.com26 Sep 2022

The government has decided to postpone the release of the new Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) and extend the existing one by six months on account of global uncertainties and currency fluctuations. The government was scheduled to announce the new FTP by the end of September. The current policy was to end on September 30.

CII seeks fiscal support, credit lines for industries hit by West Asia conflict

CII seeks fiscal support, credit lines for industries hit by West Asia conflict

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has proposed a 20-point policy agenda to the finance ministry, including a conflict-linked emergency credit line guarantee scheme and tax rationalisation on energy inputs, to support MSMEs, exporters, and energy-intensive industries affected by the ongoing West Asia war.

Pakistan, Afghanistan, China meet to discuss escalating tensions

Pakistan, Afghanistan, China meet to discuss escalating tensions

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

Officials from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and China are meeting in Urumqi to discuss regional security concerns and potential confidence-building measures.

How LeT Terrorist Set Up India Network, Evading Detection

How LeT Terrorist Set Up India Network, Evading Detection

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist Abdullah, alias Abu Hureira, who was tasked with establishing bases outside Jammu and Kashmir, adopted various professions, including share trading, to blend in with the local population. He was recently arrested along with other members of his network.

West Asia crisis: Govt mulls more relief packages for vulnerable sectors

West Asia crisis: Govt mulls more relief packages for vulnerable sectors

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

The Indian government is considering additional relief packages for vulnerable sectors like MSMEs to mitigate the impact of the ongoing West Asia crisis on the economy and inflation.

Govt extends current foreign trade policy till Sep

Govt extends current foreign trade policy till Sep

Rediff.com31 Mar 2021

The government on Wednesday extended the existing foreign trade policy (FTP) for six more months up to September 30 this year due to the Covid-19 pandemic, according to a notification. FTP provides guidelines for enhancing exports to push economic growth and create jobs. On March 31, 2020, the government had extended the Foreign Trade Policy 2015-20 for one year till March 31, 2021, amid the coronavirus outbreak and the lockdown.

Govt plans short-term foreign trade policy, may release before Sep

Govt plans short-term foreign trade policy, may release before Sep

Rediff.com28 Jul 2022

The government may roll out a new foreign trade policy (FTP) of a shorter term of two-three years in a bid to keep pace with the fast-evolving scenarios in international trade which have been triggered by recent disruptions, such as the pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war. An FTP is an elaborate policy guideline and strategy to promote the export of goods and services, with a duration of five years usually. The existing policy came into force on April 1, 2015, and was valid for five years, before multiple extensions.

'Contact with Iran difficult': Jaishankar outlines India's position on Middle East war

'Contact with Iran difficult': Jaishankar outlines India's position on Middle East war

Rediff.com9 Mar 2026

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar addressed the Rajya Sabha on India's position regarding the escalating conflict in West Asia, emphasising the need for peace, dialogue, and the safety of civilians, while also prioritising India's energy security and trade interests.

India's Foreign Trade Policy 2023 eyes $2 trillion exports by 2030

India's Foreign Trade Policy 2023 eyes $2 trillion exports by 2030

Rediff.com31 Mar 2023

The government on Friday came out with Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023 which seeks to boost the country's exports to $2 trillion by 2030 by shifting from incentives to remission and entitlement based regime. Unlike the practice of announcing 5-year FTP, the latest policy has no end date and will be updated as and when needed, said Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) Santosh Sarangi while briefing media about FTP 2023. Earlier, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal unveiled FTP 2023 which will come into effect from April 1, 2023.

Centre launches Rs 4,531 cr mkt access support scheme

Centre launches Rs 4,531 cr mkt access support scheme

Rediff.com1 Jan 2026

The government on Wednesday launched Rs 4,531 crore market access support (MAS) intervention scheme for a six-year period (FY26-31) to improve global reach, visibility and competitiveness of Indian exporters through 'structured and outcome-oriented' interventions.

Netanyahu reveals Modi's two-day Israel visit, strategic ties in focus

Netanyahu reveals Modi's two-day Israel visit, strategic ties in focus

Rediff.com16 Feb 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Israel for two days to discuss bilateral and regional issues, marking his second visit to the Jewish state and highlighting the growing strategic partnership between India and Israel.

The US Rescue That Raises More Questions Than It Answers

The US Rescue That Raises More Questions Than It Answers

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

The 'rescue' operation occurred within kilometres of Iran's underground tunnel complex at Isfahan, assessed by the IAEA and US intelligence as holding a substantial portion of the country's 60 per cent enriched uranium stockpile. Retired senior US military officers have highlighted that the mission's footprint -- hundreds of special operators, multiple heavy-lift aircraft deep inside Iran -- appears outsized for recovering a single airman. Prem Panicker continues his must read blog on the Iran War.

Gulf War: 'Missiles Flew Past Us'

Gulf War: 'Missiles Flew Past Us'

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

'We are getting used to the constant alerts to take shelter, listening to sonic booms from jets flying above us, hearing news of neighbouring ports being targeted, and being the only ship in the terminal.'

After Modi-Xi meet, India-China Beijing talks record steady progress

After Modi-Xi meet, India-China Beijing talks record steady progress

Rediff.com13 Dec 2025

Senior officials from India and China's foreign ministries met in Beijing to discuss bilateral ties following a meeting between Prime Minister Modi and President Xi.

Rupee trades near record lows against USD

Rupee trades near record lows against USD

Rediff.com2 Sep 2025

Indian rupee slipping below the record 88 level against the US dollar will enhance price competitiveness of Indian products in global markets and help exporters diversify beyond the US market, say exporters. However, import-dependent sectors such as gems and jewellery, petroleum and electronics may see lower benefits due to a rise in input costs, they stated.

Modi won't bow down to foreign pressure: Putin on US tariffs

Modi won't bow down to foreign pressure: Putin on US tariffs

Rediff.com3 Oct 2025

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced his upcoming visit to India in December and expressed his intention to address the trade imbalance between the two countries, particularly concerning India's crude oil imports from Russia. He also lauded India's independent stance on international issues and highlighted the strong relationship between the two nations.

Cong asks PM to clarify on Chinese mediation claims

Cong asks PM to clarify on Chinese mediation claims

Rediff.com31 Dec 2025

The Congress on Wednesday termed Chinese claims of mediation between India and Pakistan concerning and said the people of India need clarity on the issue.

India-China trade: Deficit widens to $99.2 bn

India-China trade: Deficit widens to $99.2 bn

Rediff.com30 Aug 2025

The bilateral trade between India and China has been growing at a healthy rate, but the trade gap remains sharply tilted in Beijing's favour. India has time and again flagged its concern over the ballooning trade deficit and the non-trade barriers faced by Indian goods in the Chinese market.

GIFT City Raises A Glass to Global Business

GIFT City Raises A Glass to Global Business

Rediff.com24 Dec 2025

The latest move removes one of the key friction points for visitors, temporary liquor permits, while allowing licensed hotels and restaurants operational flexibility.

China claims it mediated India-Pakistan tensions in May

China claims it mediated India-Pakistan tensions in May

Rediff.com30 Dec 2025

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated that China mediated tensions between India and Pakistan, a claim disputed by India which maintains that the matter was resolved bilaterally.

'India Should Move Quickly As Conditions Change'

'India Should Move Quickly As Conditions Change'

Rediff.com2 Jan 2026

'The real story of 2025 is that India officially stopped being a 'market of the future' and started acting as the world's primary economic engine.'

India calls for ceasefire, hostage release; hails Gaza peace plan

India calls for ceasefire, hostage release; hails Gaza peace plan

Rediff.com4 Dec 2025

India has called for a ceasefire, release of all hostages, and peaceful resolution of the Israel-Hamas conflict through dialogue and diplomacy. The Centre informed Parliament that India welcomed the agreement on the first phase of the Gaza Peace Plan. The article also covers India's energy sourcing strategy and the release of Indian fishermen by Pakistan.

Pak-Afghan forces exchange fire amid peace talks

Pak-Afghan forces exchange fire amid peace talks

Rediff.com7 Nov 2025

Pakistani and Afghan forces exchanged fire, testing the fragile peace between the two sides as officials from both countries held talks in Turkiye to find a lasting solution to cross-border militancy.

Gautam Singhania-backed SCCG seeks licence to restore foreign cars

Gautam Singhania-backed SCCG seeks licence to restore foreign cars

Rediff.com13 Jan 2025

Car restoration service provider Super Car Club Garage (SCCG), backed by Raymond chairman and managing director Gautam Singhania, has sought the Centre's green light for a licence to import foreign vehicles for restoration and subsequent re-export.

Cyclone Ditwah wreaks havoc in Sri Lanka, 80 killed; India provides relief

Cyclone Ditwah wreaks havoc in Sri Lanka, 80 killed; India provides relief

Rediff.com28 Nov 2025

Sri Lanka is facing a severe crisis after Cyclone Ditwah caused widespread flooding and landslides, resulting in numerous deaths and displacement. India has launched 'Operation Sagar Bandhu' to provide relief. The situation is expected to remain critical with rising river levels and continued rainfall.

India bans imports, Pak ships entry; suspends postal services

India bans imports, Pak ships entry; suspends postal services

Rediff.com3 May 2025

Main imports from the neighbouring country during April-January 2024-25 included fruits and nuts (USD 0.08 million), certain oil seeds and medicinal plants (USD 0.26 million), and organic chemicals.

Pakistan presses Taliban in Istanbul talks over cross-border terror

Pakistan presses Taliban in Istanbul talks over cross-border terror

Rediff.com7 Nov 2025

Pakistan has handed over evidence-based demands to mediators in Istanbul talks with the Afghan Taliban, aiming to end cross-border terrorism. The talks follow recent border clashes and aim to defuse tensions between the two sides.

Govt extends duty-free imports of urad till Mar 2026

Govt extends duty-free imports of urad till Mar 2026

Rediff.com11 Mar 2025

India has extended duty-free imports of urad for another year until March 31, 2026, according to a government notification. The provision was earlier in place until the end of March this year.

Trump expresses 'keen interest' in trade pact with Pak, hails army chief

Trump expresses 'keen interest' in trade pact with Pak, hails army chief

Rediff.com19 Jun 2025

In a statement after a meeting between Trump and Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir at the White House on Wednesday, the Inter-Services Public Relations -- the media wing of the Pakistan Army -- said they also discussed joint counterterrorism efforts.

Paranoid India Inc wants early conclusion of trade pact with US

Paranoid India Inc wants early conclusion of trade pact with US

Rediff.com26 Mar 2025

The Indian industry is paranoid about the USA's plan to impose reciprocal tariffs and wants early conclusion of a bilateral trade agreement, sources said on Wednesday. They said that the talks for the proposed bilateral trade agreement are going well.

'Within 5 hours, it was done': Trump repeats he stopped India-Pak nuke war

'Within 5 hours, it was done': Trump repeats he stopped India-Pak nuke war

Rediff.com27 Aug 2025

Trump also repeated his claim that seven fighter jets or more were shot down during the hostilities.

Maritime incidents involving India and its seafarers rose 22% in 2024

Maritime incidents involving India and its seafarers rose 22% in 2024

Rediff.com23 Jul 2025

Incidents in the maritime sector involving Indian seafarers, and foreign vessels in Indian waters rose by 21.6 per cent in 2024 to 186, highlighting the need to strengthen safety frameworks.