It is learnt that residents of Margao have reportedly urged the Metrology Department, Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other authorities to crack down on vendors selling unregulated, overpriced and substandard Christmas items in town. It is pertinent to note that during the festive season, Chinese decorations and other Christmas items flood the market. In the past there had been several calls to shun Chinese products after a border clash with China in 2020 in which 20 Indian soldiers were killed. The Indian government has taken steps to reduce its reliance on Chinese imports and promote domestic production. Commonly cited reasons for boycotting China include the alleged low quality of products, human rights issues and territorial conflicts involving China. The China-India relationship has been marred by sporadic conflicts largely stemming from disputes surrounding their 3,440 kilometre long border. India faces a triple challenge from China in Ladakh, Sikkim, and indirectly in Arunachal Pradesh, which China claims as its territory. By buying Chinese products we are indirectly funding these anti-national activities. There is a need to boycott Chinese goods especially decorations and other Christmas items during the festive season.
