Post-Operation Sindoor Fallout Hits Jewellery Trade in Uttar Pradesh
Lucknow, May 16: In a strong response to Turkiye’s overt support for Pakistan during recent hostilities under India's 'Operation Sindoor', jewellers in Lucknow have declared a complete boycott of Turkish-design jewellery and imports from Turkiye.The decision, taken by major city-based jewellery associations, marks a significant shift in market sentiment, especially given the recent popularity of Turkish ornaments during Akshay Tritiya.
From Bestselling to Boycotted: Turkish Jewellery Out of Favour
"Turkish jewellery saw maximum demand during Akshay Tritiya. But after Turkiye's clear support to Pakistan, we have unanimously decided to stop all imports and sales of Turkish jewellery," said Aadish Jain, Vice-President of the Chowk Sarafa Association.He added that key items such as necklaces, rings, and earpieces were primarily imported from Turkiye. Turkish-origin necklaces account for nearly 25 percent of daily sales. Out of every 20 necklaces sold, five were of Turkish design.
Complete Trade Halt on Turkish Imports by Lucknow Associations
Manish Kumar Verma, President of the Lucknow Mahanagar Sarafa Association, confirmed a blanket halt on all Turkish jewellery. “We used to import casting designs from Turkiye, including some silver items. But post Operation Sindoor, we’ve cancelled all orders and stopped all Turkish imports,” he stated.Echoing the sentiment, local jeweller Abhishek Dutta affirmed that the boycott encompasses purchase, sale, and even display of Turkish jewellery.
Broader Impact on Bilateral Ties and Trade
India's trade relationship with Turkiye spans various sectors. In 2023–24, exports to Turkiye included mineral fuels and oils (worth USD 960 million), pharmaceuticals, chemicals, textiles, auto parts, and iron and steel. Imports included marble, gold, apples (USD 10 million), cement, mineral oil (USD 1.81 billion), and jewellery components.Amid growing diplomatic strain, Indian officials indicated that the government may soon discourage travel to Turkiye and Azerbaijan. This could lead to a dip in Indian tourist visits, destination weddings, and film shootings in those countries.
Educational and Institutional Ties Also Under Review
Adding to the widening impact, several Indian institutions are reevaluating academic collaborations with Turkish universities. Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), among others, has either suspended or is reconsidering joint programmes.Turkiye and Azerbaijan had both condemned India’s military action in Pakistan and PoK during Operation Sindoor. Pakistan’s use of Turkish drones in the conflict has further intensified scrutiny of bilateral engagement.
As geopolitical tensions rise, trade and cultural exchanges between India and Turkiye are rapidly cooling, with Lucknow's jewellers becoming the latest to make a definitive stand.
