Operation Deep Manifest

Prelims: Current events of national and international importance

Why in news?

Recently Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) seizes Pakistani-origin goods worth Rs 9 crore under ‘Operation Deep Manifest’

Operation deep manifest – It is a targeted enforcement operation by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI).
Aim – To intercept and seize illicit Pakistani-origin goods being routed into India via third countries, mainly the UAE.
Reason for the operation – India imposed a complete ban on direct and indirect import/transit of Pakistani-origin goods after the Pahalgam terror attacks.
The ban came into effect on May 2, 2025, replacing the earlier 200% customs duty on Pakistani goods.
The operation enforces this zero-tolerance policy on economic ties with Pakistan.
Key seizure details – 39 containers seized at Nhava Sheva port contained 1,115 metric tonnes of goods of total estimated value of Rs 9 crore.
The goods were dry dates falsely declared as UAE-origin but traced back to Karachi, Pakistan, via Dubai.
Modus operandi – Importers mis declared the origin of goods who were using Jabel Ali port as a transhipment point for Pakistani-origin goods attempting to enter India under false declaration.

Jebel Ali Port is located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE) is the largest port in the Middle East and one of the world’s busiest ports.

Manipulated in shipping documents and financial trails linked to Pakistani entities were detected, indicating illicit financial flows.
Significance – It is the part of DRI's enhanced enforcement drive after Operation Sindoor.
DRI is employing data analytics and intelligence gathering to monitor suspect consignments.
It reflects India’s commitment to economic and national security, especially in the context of regional threats.

Reference