Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated that the upcoming three years are vital for determining India’s success in combating drug use and trafficking. During the 10th Apex Level meeting of the Narcotics Coordination Centre (NCORD) held at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi, Shah unveiled the Vision Document for Drug Control covering the period from 2026 to 2029. This document outlines a comprehensive strategy aimed at addressing the various facets of the narcotics issue, including efforts to reduce demand, supply, and associated harm.

Shah emphasised that the timeframe from 2026 to 2029 would be instrumental in shaping the nation’s approach towards the drug menace. He initiated the NCB Annual Report for 2025 and inaugurated new zonal offices for the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in Jammu and Guwahati via a virtual platform. Furthermore, he initiated the Online Drugs Disposal Fortnight Campaign, which aims to destroy over 2,09,500 kilograms of narcotics, valued at more than Rs 6,000 crore.

Earlier this year, Shah had mandated that all central and state government entities develop a clear strategy by March 31, 2026, in advance of a nationwide campaign against drug abuse.

Collective Responsibility to Combat Drug Abuse

According to Shah, the battle against drugs extends beyond the capabilities of law enforcement agencies and is a collective responsibility shared by the entire nation. He appealed for active participation from state governments, central agencies, security forces, educators, youth groups, religious leaders, and women in the anti-drug campaign. Protecting India’s youth from narcotics, he claimed, is essential if the country aims to be a developed nation by 2047.

The Home Minister articulated that establishing a drug-free society is not solely a matter of law enforcement, but also crucial for national security, social stability, and economic prosperity.

Shah highlighted that drug trafficking has escalated to the level of narco-terrorism, with proceeds financing terrorist organisations and criminal syndicates. He noted that India’s geographical location makes it particularly vulnerable to international drug trafficking, often linked to sophisticated methods involving advanced technologies such as drones and the dark web.

Strategic Roadmap Based on Four Key Pillars

The government’s plan for drug control during 2026 to 2029 is founded on four essential pillars. The first pillar focuses on enforcement, intelligence, and operations, aiming to dismantle entire drug networks through intelligence-driven initiatives. The second pillar addresses the regulation of precursor chemicals and synthetic drugs, targeting the monitoring of substances used in illegal drug production.

The third pillar aims at demand reduction and rehabilitation, emphasising strategies to prevent youth engagement with drugs and enhancing treatment and rehabilitation infrastructure. The final pillar centres on capacity building, coordination, and monitoring, with a focus on improving collaboration among agencies and utilizing modern technology to ensure accountability.

Shah proposed a new anti-drug strategy encapsulated in the phrase “Detect, Disrupt, and Destroy,” outlining a comprehensive approach that requires identifying drug networks and dismantling their operational capabilities.

Strengthened Measures Against Drug Traffickers

Shah underscored a dual approach in the fight against narcotics: a tough stance on traffickers while showing compassion towards addiction victims. He stated that both government and society must work together to rehabilitate individuals affected by substance abuse.

The Home Minister instructed state Chief Secretaries and Directors General of Police to ensure that NCORD meetings are productive and results-oriented. He advocated for the establishment of Anti-Narcotics Task Forces (ANTFs) as dedicated units and urged states to appoint special public prosecutors for significant drug-related cases.

Additionally, he called for the issuance of Red Corner Notices against fleeing drug traffickers to facilitate their extradition, enhancing the government’s capability to combat narcotics effectively.

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