India restricts land-based imports from Bangladesh, set to affect livelihood in border districts

In a significant policy shift, the Indian government has imposed sweeping restrictions on land-based imports from Bangladesh, citing rising anti-India activities allegedly spearheaded by the caretaker government in Dhaka led by Mohammed Yunus.

- STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE

The move is expected to severely impact cross-border trade and the livelihoods of thousands who depend on daily-wage work and logistics along the India-Bangladesh border including Ghojadanga in Basirhat and Petrapole-Benapole border in Bongaon in North 24-Parganas. A fresh directive issued Saturday by India's central government bans the import of several categories of goods—most notably readymade garments, cotton fabrics, wooden furniture, packaged beverages, and certain food items—through key land ports.

The new restrictions apply to major trade corridors including Petrapole in West Bengal and select northeastern ports such as Changrabandha and Fulbari. These goods may now only be imported via Kolkata or Mumbai seaports.