Trade, ports, mail: India shuts out Pak entirely

India took fresh steps on Saturday to completely block out Pakistan as it unveiled punitive economic measures against the neighbouring country, banning the import of all goods originating there, prohibiting Pakistan-flagged vessels calling at Indian ports, and stopping the exchange of mail and parcels by land and air routes.

- Rajeev Jayaswal

The moves — by three different divisions: Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) and Department of Posts — are the latest in New Delhi's manoeuvres to retaliate against Pakistan over its continued support to terrorism, following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.

The government cited national security and national interest as reasons for the measures, which came against the backdrop of India also undercutting Pakistan at international fora as part of the efforts to build a global consensus against Islamabad.

"Direct or indirect import or transit of all goods originating in or exported from Pakistan, whether or not freely importable or otherwise permitted, shall be prohibited with immediate effect, until further orders. This restriction is imposed in the interest of national security and public policy," said a May 2 notification by DGFT, an arm of the commerce ministry.

In a separate order issued on Saturday, DGS, which is a part of the ministry of ports, shipping and waterways, said all ships "bearing the flag of Pakistan shall not be allowed to visit any Indian Port". It also prohibited Indian-flagged vessels from visiting any Pakistani port.

"This order is issued to ensure safety of Indian assets, cargo and connected infrastructure, in public interest and for interest of Indian shipping.