CBIC Issues Circular for Inclusion of Gender-Specific Facilities in Custodian Centers under HCCAR

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs ( CBIC ) has issued Circular No. 03/2024-Customs dated March 08, 2024, requiring Custodian CCSP-CFS/AFS/ICD under the Handling of Cargo in Customs Area Regulations ( HCCAR ), 2009 to incorporate gender-specific infrastructure facilities.

This mandate, referenced in Notification No. 26/2009-Customs ( N.T. ) dated March 17, 2009, which established the HCCAR 2009 to regulate Customs Cargo Service Providers ( CCSPs ), highlighted CBIC’s commitment to streamline procedures and enhance accountability in customs operations.

Earlier circulars, including Circular No. 50/2020-Customs, have stressed the necessity for infrastructural upgrades, particularly gender-specific amenities, in response to escalating trade volumes at CFSs/AFSs/ICDs. Specific directives encompass creating gender-sensitive infrastructure, designated counters for female traders, segregated workplace areas, and dedicated customer care facilities.

Recognizing the growing participation of women in various roles within these facilities, CBIC reaffirms its dedication to promoting women’s empowerment ( Nari Shakti ) by ensuring safe and inclusive work environments. To this end, CBIC advocates for:

1. Gender-responsive infrastructure to optimise workplace efficiency.
2. Provision of care facilities, including creches, compliant with the Maternity Benefits Act, 2017.
3. Establishment of Internal Complaints Committees ( ICCs ) as per the Prevention of Sexual Harassment at Workplaces Act, 2013.
4. Conducting regular gender sensitization training for staff.
5. Continuous facility upgrades from a gender perspective.
6. Implementation of any other gender-specific measures to nurture an inclusive workplace ecosystem.

The Principal Commissioners/Commissioners of Customs overseeing CFSs/AFSs/ICDs are entrusted with promoting the availability of such infrastructural amenities and initiating necessary improvements.

The Custodians are urged to proactively furnish gender-specific facilities in line with CBIC’s directives, ensuring a supportive environment for women professionals to thrive in their respective careers.

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