In a powerful gesture of solidarity with India’s armed forces, Union Minister Smriti Irani on Friday announced the donation of her entire pension and benefits as a former Member of Parliament to the National Defence Fund.
Speaking to reporters, Irani said,
“As a citizen and strategic advisor of the All India Traders Federation, I have pledged to contribute to the National Defence Fund. Since last year, I have not accepted my pension or any facility as a former MP. This is the treasury’s money, and today, I dedicate it to our brave armed forces.”
Strong Support for CAIT’s Boycott of Turkey and Azerbaijan
The BJP leader also strongly backed the Confederation of All India Traders’ (CAIT) decision to completely boycott trade with Turkey and Azerbaijan, condemning both countries for openly supporting Pakistan amid recent hostilities.
“The boycott is not just a commercial move. It’s a clear stand in support of the brave sons and daughters of India who guard our nation’s borders,” she stated.
Irani praised small traders for leading India’s economic and nationalistic push:
“The small businessman is not just building the economy, they are also fully committed to realising the vision of Make in India.”
CAIT’s Strategic Trade Action
CAIT Secretary General and BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal, addressing a national trade conference, formally declared the immediate suspension of all imports and exports between Indian traders and Turkey and Azerbaijan.
“This is a collective stand. Turkey and Azerbaijan have stood with Pakistan. Our response is clear — no trade, no travel,” Khandelwal said.
He also called upon:
- The Indian film and advertising industry to stop shooting in these nations.
- Citizens to boycott travel to Turkey and Azerbaijan.
- The government to review codeshare agreements, particularly the one between IndiGo and Turkish Airlines.
Potential Economic Impact on Turkey
According to CAIT:
- 300,000 Indian tourists visited Turkey in 2024, a 20.7% increase from 2023.
- Each Indian tourist spent an average of USD 972, totalling USD 291.6 million in revenue.
- An Indian travel boycott could lead to direct losses of USD 291.6 million, excluding further losses from wedding, business, and cultural events.
Khandelwal emphasized that CAIT would coordinate with tour operators and civil aviation authorities to ensure this boycott’s reach and effectiveness.