Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion receives 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.

Fireworks in India have been declared as restricted item under ITC (HS) in respect of import by Director General of Foreign Trade. 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 27.1.1992. Till date, no license for import of fireworks has been granted under the Explosives Rules, 2008 by Petroleum & Explosives Safety Organization, a subordinate office of Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion.

Possession and sale of fireworks of foreign origin in India 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.