The Directorate of Enforcement (ED), established in 1956, is the premier financial investigation agency of the Government of India entrusted with enforcing laws relating to foreign exchange management and anti–money laundering. Over the decades, the Directorate has steadily evolved in line with India’s economic, legal and regulatory environment—transitioning from the administration of FERA to FEMA, and today leading the enforcement of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act (FEOA).
Guided by the principle that crime must not be allowed to yield benefits, the Directorate remains committed to detecting, disrupting and deterring money laundering and related economic offences. Our efforts focus on ensuring that the proceeds of crime are identified, secured and prevented from entering the legitimate financial system, thereby upholding the integrity of India’s financial architecture.
The Directorate remains committed not only to identifying and restraining the proceeds of crime, but also to ensuring that the benefits of enforcement reach those who have suffered losses due to these offences. Through the restitution mechanism provided under law, the Directorate undertakes a structured process to return confiscated or attached assets to rightful claimants after due verification and legal scrutiny. This victim-centric approach reflected in the restitution of properties, deposits, valuables and other assets to individuals, financial institutions, homebuyers and other aggrieved parties ensures that enforcement outcomes translate into tangible relief.
With the nature of financial crime becoming increasingly complex and technology-driven, ED has adopted an integrated and modern approach to investigations. The establishment of advanced cyber forensic capabilities, specialised analytical tools, and dedicated technical support structures has strengthened our capacity to collect, process and present evidence with precision and speed.
Recognising the cross-border dimension of economic crimes, the Directorate has also deepened its international cooperation. Our engagements with multilateral platforms and foreign jurisdictions support India’s efforts in global asset tracing, information sharing and coordinated enforcement actions. These partnerships reflect our commitment to contributing meaningfully to the international community’s fight against money laundering.
The achievements of the Directorate are a result of the unwavering dedication and professionalism of our officers and staff across the country. Their diligence, integrity and commitment to duty have been instrumental in strengthening the rule of law and safeguarding national interests. I extend my sincere appreciation to every member of the ED family for their service.
Going forward, the Directorate will continue to enhance its institutional capabilities, upgrade technological infrastructure, strengthen inter-agency coordination and invest in continuous capacity building. ED remains firmly committed to maintaining the highest standards of transparency, accountability and excellence in the discharge of its mandate and to protect the nation’s financial Integrity.
Jai Hind.
Rahul Navin,IRS
Director of Enforcement
