Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion - Press Note

Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion have been receiving a number of complaints/representations regarding clandestine import of fireworks of foreign origin under false declarations. Various Fireworks Associations have time and again raised the issue and informed that these smuggled items include the chemical ‘Potassium Chlorate’ which is a dangerous and hazardous chemical and can ignite or explode spontaneously.

The manufacture, possession, use, sale, etc. of any explosive containing sulphur or sulphurate in admixture with any chlorate is banned in the country vide Notification GSR No. 64(E) dated 27.01.1992. Besides, fireworks have been declared as restricted item under ITC (HS) in respect of import by the Director General of Foreign Trade. Till date, no license for import of fireworks has been granted under the Explosives Rules, 2008 by Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organization, a Subordinate Office of Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion.

Possession and sale of fireworks of foreign origin is illegal and punishable under the Law. Information about possession and/or sale of such fireworks may be reported to the nearest Police Station for suitable action.