FM Urges DRI to Follow Through with Enforcement Actions to their Logical Conclusion
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Advocates Comprehensive Smuggling Investigations
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has called upon the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) to engage in thorough investigations of the complete smuggling apparatus and to ensure enforcement actions reach their full potential. During a recent event, she stressed the necessity of integrating modern technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics to bolster enforcement abilities and to foster a fair environment for legitimate businesses.
Addressing Drug Threats in Educational Institutions
Highlighting the escalating risk posed by drug dealers targeting educational institutions, including schools and colleges, Sitharaman urged for decisive measures to avert such occurrences. She underscored that enhanced collaboration and communication between state authorities and enforcement agencies are critical for effectively tackling these challenges.
Focus on Systematic Investigations
“Utilize all accessible information and data regarding individuals and their behavioral patterns to reveal deeper systemic vulnerabilities and threats by connecting overlooked details. The objective should be to dismantle entire networks and syndicates, rather than merely intercepting isolated incidents,” Sitharaman articulated. She emphasized that DRI plays a vital role in upholding the country’s economic integrity, countering smuggling, drug trafficking, and other illicit activities.
A Holistic Approach to Enforcement
Sitharaman urged DRI officers not to view enforcement and facilitation as opposing forces. Instead, she encouraged a comprehensive approach that maintains a broader perspective, rather than focusing solely on isolated infractions. The aim is to transition towards a value-oriented compliance framework to protect economic systems and bolster national security.
Utilizing Advanced Technology to Combat Emerging Threats
At the event, Revenue Secretary Arvind Shrivastava stated that officers should harness advanced technological tools to assess new threats arising from concealed supply chains, cross-border e-commerce, and the dark web. He expressed the need for DRI to allocate resources to examine threats linked to these channels as well as issues like cryptocurrency misuse and the trafficking of synthetic drugs.
Recent DRI Achievements
Last year, DRI successfully confiscated 1,382 kilograms of gold in various operations, leading to the arrest of key syndicate members and the dismantling of numerous networks. The agency also seized 62 kilograms of heroin, 85 kilograms of cocaine, over 10,000 kilograms of ganja, and more than 600 kilograms of synthetic drugs, including ketamine, methamphetamine, and ecstasy throughout 2024.
