The Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) has revealed that, despite ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan, Indian goods worth over USD 10 billion are reaching Pakistan annually through indirect routes, specifically ports like Dubai, Singapore, and Colombo, circumventing trade restrictions.

According to GTRI, Indian companies first send their products to these ports. An independent entity then offloads the shipments and stores them in bonded warehouses, allowing goods to remain duty-free while in transit.

GTRI Founder Ajay Srivastava elaborated, “Within the bonded warehouse, the labels and documents are modified to indicate a different country of origin. For instance, products manufactured in India might be rebranded as ‘Made in UAE’ before being shipped to Pakistan, where direct trade with India is prohibited.” This practice enables companies to bypass trade restrictions, sell products at elevated prices through third countries, and minimize scrutiny by making the trade appear to originate from other nations.

In a related matter, Pakistani health authorities have begun implementing “emergency preparedness” measures to secure pharmaceutical supplies in light of suspended trade relations with India. Pakistan relies on India for 30% to 40% of its pharmaceutical raw materials, including Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (API) and other advanced therapeutic products.

A report by Geo News noted that the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) confirmed that, although no formal notification about the trade ban’s impact on the pharmaceutical sector has been issued, contingency plans are being activated. A senior DRAP official stated, “After the crisis in 2019, we began preparing for such eventualities and are currently exploring alternative sources to meet our pharmaceutical needs.”

The two-way trade between India and Pakistan had significantly diminished after the Pulwama terror attack in 2019 due to measures taken by both nations. For the April-January 2024-25 period, India’s exports to Pakistan totaled USD 447.65 million, while imports were a mere USD 0.42 million. The figures for 2023-24 were USD 1.18 billion in exports and USD 2.88 million in imports.

Following the heightened media attention in Pakistan regarding Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s remarks on not pursuing war with Pakistan after the Pahalgam terror attack that resulted in 26 fatalities, the Karnataka BJP has criticized the CM for appearing to act as a “puppet” of the neighboring nation.

Leader of Opposition R. Ashoka shared a video from a Pakistani news channel featuring CM Siddaramaiah’s comments on his X account. Referring to him as “Pakistan Ratna,” Ashoka sarcastically stated in Kannada (translated loosely), “Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, you have unexpectedly gained fame in Pakistan because of your juvenile and nonsensical remarks.”

“Congratulations! If you ever visit Pakistan, you can expect a grand reception. It wouldn’t be surprising if the Pakistani government honors you with their prestigious Nishan-e-Pakistan award for being a great ambassador of peace.”

Ashoka emphasized that during such a sensitive period for the nation, where tensions are high at the border, the CM is acting like a “puppet” for the enemy. “Your presence in public life is one of our country’s greatest misfortunes,” he added.

In response to the discussion about retaliating against Pakistan after the Pahalgam attack, CM Siddaramaiah stated in Mysuru, “At this time, there is no need to declare war against Pakistan. We must implement stringent security measures instead. We advocate for peace, ensuring that people feel secure, and the Central government must take effective security measures.”

Addressing questions about the Central government acknowledging security lapses related to the Pahalgam attack, he remarked, “I have spoken about the security shortfalls that contributed to this tragedy. Proper arrangements were lacking at a tourist hotspot that draws large crowds. Given the previous loss of 40 soldiers in Pulwama, heightened vigilance was essential.”

He further articulated, “There were both intelligence and security failures. Many believed they were safe, but the Central government did not secure them. The trust placed in them has been betrayed.”

“No matter what measures are taken now, will the 26 lives lost in the Pahalgam attack be restored?” CM Siddaramaiah questioned.

When asked about the absence of security personnel at the site, he replied, “I’m not sure. I still need to speak with State Labour Minister Santosh Lad, who was dispatched to Kashmir for further information.” Minister Lad has since ensured the return of all stranded individuals from Karnataka.

On the subject of repatriating Pakistani nationals from the state, CM Siddaramaiah stated, “We will cooperate fully. We will provide information to the Central government and facilitate their return. I do not have precise data on the number of Pakistani nationals present in various cities of Karnataka, but there is a significant population in Bengaluru.”

Criticizing the Prime Minister, CM Siddaramaiah added, “The Prime Minister should have attended the all-party meeting called following the Pahalgam attack. They are misleading the public. Which matters more — the Bihar election campaign or the all-party meeting?”

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has assumed control of the Pahalgam terror attack case, which resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, including a Nepali national. Previously, this investigation was managed by the J&K Police, but it was transferred to the NIA following directives from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, as stated in a press release.

Since April 23, the NIA teams have been stationed at the attack site, intensifying their search for evidence. Under the supervision of an Inspector General (IG), a Deputy Inspector General (DIG), and a Superintendent of Police (SP) from the anti-terror agency, investigators are meticulously questioning eyewitnesses who witnessed the attack unfold in the serene Baisaran valley. The agency aims to reconstruct the timeline of events leading to this tragic incident, noted the media release.

Investigators are closely examining entry and exit points for clues regarding the terrorists’ methods. Assisted by forensic experts, they are thoroughly scouring the area for evidence that could uncover the conspiracy behind this shocking attack.

On April 22, a group of terrorists targeted tourists in the Baisaran meadows, a popular destination in Pahalgam. The attack resulted in the deaths of 25 Indian citizens and one Nepali national. Eyewitness accounts describe a harrowing scene in which the attackers asked victims for their religion before opening fire at close range, specifically targeting 25 Hindu men.

A massive operation is underway in the valley to apprehend the perpetrators. Several suspects have been detained, and the homes of ten identified terrorists have been demolished.