INVC NEWS New Delhi — A sweeping decision to boycott trade with Turkey and Azerbaijan has been solidified by over 125 prominent Indian business leaders, reflecting rising tensions due to these nations’ support for Pakistan during Operation Sindoor. This comprehensive boycott will extend beyond commerce to impact the travel and tourism sectors, signaling a robust stance from the Indian business community. The call to action also targets the Indian film industry, urging filmmakers to cease shooting projects in both countries to maintain national solidarity.
Business Representatives Unite for a National Cause
During a crucial meeting held in New Delhi, representatives from various trades—including garments, groceries, automobiles, IT, footwear, dry fruits, and jewelry—convened to finalize a collective strategy aimed at exerting economic pressure on Turkey and Azerbaijan. The conference, which saw participation from 24 states such as Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Maharashtra, concluded with a unanimous resolution urging the central government to reconsider existing trade policies with these countries.
Business leaders stressed that corporate houses must halt promotional shoots in Turkey and Azerbaijan, warning that failure to comply could trigger consumer and business boycotts of films and products associated with these nations.
National Pride and Defense to be Honored Through District-Level Tiranga Yatras
A significant outcome of the meeting was the decision to organize Tiranga Yatras at district levels across India, highlighting patriotic fervor and support for the armed forces engaged in safeguarding the nation against terrorism. The business community also pledged to contribute generously to the National Defence Fund, underlining their commitment to national security and unity.
Strong Opposition to Foreign Interference in India’s Sovereignty
CAT National General Secretary, Praveen Khandelwal, condemned the actions of Turkey and Azerbaijan, describing their support for terrorism as a direct attack on India’s sovereignty and national interests. This sentiment was echoed across the conference, which stood firmly behind Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership and policies. Khandelwal emphasized the betrayal felt by India’s business community given the goodwill extended to these countries.
Smriti Irani Applauds Traders’ Patriotic Resolve
Former Union Minister Smriti Irani lauded the national service spirit demonstrated by Indian traders and announced her decision to donate her pension to the National Defence Fund. She also highlighted the imminent Tiranga Yatras as a vital platform for uniting the country in support of its armed forces. The conference also featured voices from Swadeshi Jagran Manch leaders Satish Kumar and Ashwini Mahajan, who addressed ongoing challenges faced by retail traders in the age of e-commerce and digital commerce competition.
Call to Ban Turkish Apple Imports to Protect Indian Orchardists
One pressing economic issue raised at the meeting was the impact of cheap Turkish apple imports on Indian orchardists. The Himalayan Apple Growers Society urged Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal to impose a ban on Turkey’s apples, noting that over 100,000 tonnes enter India annually, causing substantial losses to local producers. This demand underscores a broader effort to safeguard domestic industries while reinforcing the boycott.
The Road Ahead: A Unified Economic and Cultural Resistance
The Indian business community’s growing call for a boycott on Turkey and Azerbaijan represents a potent mix of economic strategy and patriotic resolve. By targeting trade, tourism, and the entertainment sector, Indian traders and industry leaders aim to send a clear message that support for terrorism will not be tolerated. These decisive actions also reflect India’s commitment to protecting its sovereignty and promoting national unity in the face of external threats.
The coming months will reveal how these coordinated efforts influence trade policies and public sentiment across the country, but one thing remains certain — the Indian business community is ready to take bold steps to defend national interests and uphold the dignity of the nation.