In a significant escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan, the Indian government has announced a comprehensive ban on all categories of mail and parcels from Pakistan, effective immediately. This decision follows a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam district that claimed the lives of 26 civilians on April 22, 2025, prompting the Indian government to take drastic measures in response to security concerns.
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) issued a notice on May 2, 2025, stating that the ban is part of a new regulation inserted into the Foreign Trade Policy, 2023. The regulation, known as Para 2.20A, outlines the prohibition on the direct or indirect import of all goods originating from Pakistan. The DGFT's notice emphasized that this restriction is imposed in the interest of national security and public policy, with any exceptions requiring prior approval from the Government of India.
On May 3, the Ministry of Communications confirmed the suspension of all inbound mail and parcel exchanges with Pakistan via air and surface routes. A public notice issued by the ministry stated, "The Government of India has decided to suspend exchange of all categories of inbound mail and parcels from Pakistan through air and surface routes." This announcement marks a continuation of India’s stringent measures against Pakistan following the recent terror attack.
In addition to the mail and parcel ban, the Indian government has taken several other significant actions. These include closing Indian airspace to flights operated by Pakistani airlines and sealing the Attari-Wagah border in Amritsar. Furthermore, all types of visas previously granted to Pakistani nationals have been cancelled, with an order for them to leave India by April 30, 2025.
Reports indicate that the Indian government’s actions are a direct response to Pakistan’s alleged support for cross-border terrorism. The Pahalgam attack, which resulted in numerous civilian casualties, has intensified calls within India for stronger measures against Pakistan. In the wake of the attack, India has also suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, a critical agreement governing water-sharing between the two nations.
According to data from the Ministry of Commerce, India’s exports to Pakistan from April to January during the fiscal year 2024-25 were valued at $447.65 million, while imports were significantly lower at just $0.42 million. This disparity highlights the limited economic interaction between the two nations, which has been further strained by recent geopolitical tensions.
The Indian government’s latest measures come amid ongoing violations of ceasefire agreements along the Line of Control (LoC), with reports of Pakistani forces engaging in small arms fire across several districts in Jammu and Kashmir. These developments have raised concerns about the potential for escalating conflict between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
In a broader context, the Indian government has faced increased pressure from various political factions to adopt a tougher stance against Pakistan. The recent terror attack has galvanized public sentiment, with many citizens calling for decisive actions to ensure national security. As tensions rise, the Indian government’s strategy appears focused on isolating Pakistan diplomatically and economically.
In response to India’s actions, Pakistan has announced the suspension of all trade with India, including the transit of goods through third countries. Pakistani officials have criticized India’s measures as unjustified and provocative, warning that such actions could lead to further deterioration of relations.
The situation remains fluid, with both nations bracing for the potential fallout from these developments. Observers are closely monitoring the situation, as the implications of these actions could have far-reaching consequences for regional stability.
As the Indian government continues to implement stringent measures against Pakistan, questions arise about the long-term impact on bilateral relations and the prospects for peace in the region. The international community is urged to engage in dialogue to prevent further escalation and to address the underlying issues that contribute to the ongoing conflict.
