New Delhi, May 16, 2025 – A sweeping wave of boycotts targeting Turkish goods, services, and institutional ties has taken hold across India in response to Turkey’s open support for Pakistan during Operation Sindoor. The nationwide sentiment has triggered reactions from traders, airlines, educational institutions, and even government-linked defense projects.
Fruit traders in Alwar, Nagpur, and Pune have removed Turkish apples from their markets, choosing to stock domestic alternatives as a show of solidarity. The message, they say, is clear—India comes first. Similarly, marble importers in Udaipur have decided to stop procuring Turkish marble, a sector worth nearly ₹3,000 crore annually.
The backlash has reached the aviation and travel industries. Air India has urged the government to cancel IndiGo’s leasing agreement with Turkish Airlines over national security concerns. Meanwhile, the Indian government has revoked security clearance for Turkish-owned Celebi Airport Services, which operated at major Indian airports.
Leading Indian travel platforms like EaseMyTrip, Ixigo, and Cox & Kings have suspended all bookings to Turkey and Azerbaijan. Accommodation platforms such as Go Homestays and Goa Villas have also ceased services to Turkish citizens and dropped collaborations with Turkish carriers. These actions come as travel companies urge the public to avoid countries taking anti-India stances.
Academic institutions are also taking a stand. Jamia Millia Islamia University has suspended its Memorandums of Understanding with Turkish government-linked institutions, citing concerns over potential security risks. The Ministry of External Affairs has postponed the presentation of credentials by the new Turkish ambassador, a rare diplomatic signal of disapproval.
The defense sector has not remained untouched. India has cancelled a $2 billion shipbuilding agreement with Turkey’s Anadolu Shipyard, ending plans to co-develop Fleet Support Ships. This is being viewed as a strategic move following Turkey’s political alignment with Pakistan.
Social media has amplified the sentiment, with hashtags like #BoycottTurkey and #BoycottAzerbaijan gaining traction. Citizens and influencers are actively calling for the rejection of Turkish imports, travel, and institutional ties in favor of national pride.
