The Ministry of Finance announced on 23 October 2026 that the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) seized approximately 25,000 kg of watermelon seeds originating from Pakistan. The seeds, valued at about Rs. 2.02 crore, were routed through Dubai and falsely declared as UAE-origin to bypass India's import ban on Pakistani goods and restrictions on watermelon seeds. Two individuals were arrested on 22 October 2026 for their roles in the operation. The seizure was part of 'Operation Deep Manifest' conducted between 11 September and 22 October 2026.
Key points
- Seized: ~25,000 kg of Pakistan-origin watermelon seeds valued at Rs. 2.02 crore
- Arrests: Two persons arrested on 22 October 2026
- Ban: All goods from Pakistan prohibited since 2 May 2025
- Restriction: Watermelon seed imports restricted since 1 July 2024
- Method: Goods were transshipped through Jebel Ali Port, Dubai to hide origin
When it applies
- Operation Deep Manifest conduct period
- Operation Deep Manifest conduct period
- seizure of watermelon seeds
- arrest of two persons
- ban on goods from Pakistan
- restriction on watermelon seed imports
Who it affects
- importers
- importers and exporters
Refers to
- DGFT Notification No. 06/2025-26 dated 2 May 2025
- DGFT Notification No. 02/2023 dated 5 April 2024
- Customs Act, 1962