In 2024, Indian law enforcement agencies seized narcotics worth over ₹25,330 crore. This marked increase of 55% compared to the previous year. The rise in seizures reflects the government’s zero-tolerance policy against drugs. Agencies like the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) have intensified efforts to combat drug trafficking.
Zero-Tolerance Policy Overview
The Government of India’s zero-tolerance policy aims to eradicate drug abuse and trafficking. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a ‘Whole-of-Government Approach’ has been adopted. This strategy involves collaboration among various law enforcement agencies to enhance the effectiveness of drug seizures.
Significant Increase in Seizures
The total value of seized narcotics in 2024 was ₹25,330 crore. This is a considerable rise from ₹16,100 crore in 2023. The increase indicates a more robust enforcement response to the growing drug problem in India.
Types of Narcotics Seized
The data shows a notable increase in specific types of drugs. The seizure of Amphetamine-Type Stimulants (ATS) like Methamphetamine doubled from 34 quintals in 2023 to 80 quintals in 2024. Cocaine seizures rose from 292 kg to 1,426 kg. Mephedrone seizures increased from 688 kg to 3,391 kg. Hashish seizures also grew, from 34 quintals to 61 quintals.
Pharmaceutical Drugs as Psychotropic Substances
The abuse of pharmaceutical drugs has surged . The number of seized tablets rose from 1.84 crore in 2023 to 4.69 crore in 2024. This trend marks the alarming rise of legally prescribed medications being misused as psychotropic substances.
Enforcement Strategies
The increase in seizures can be attributed to a ‘Bottom to Top’ and ‘Top to Bottom’ approach. This strategy ensures that enforcement efforts target both grassroots operations and high-level trafficking networks. Collaborative efforts among law enforcement agencies have proven effective in disrupting drug supply chains.
Future Implications
The ongoing rise in narcotics seizures suggests a persistent drug problem in India. The government’s rigorous enforcement measures may deter some trafficking activities. However, the increasing volume of drugs seized indicates that demand remains high, necessitating continued vigilance and innovative strategies.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the impact of the zero-tolerance policy on drug trafficking in India.
- What are the implications of the rise in synthetic drug seizures on public health? Discuss.
- Estimate the effectiveness of the ‘Whole-of-Government Approach’ in combating drug abuse in India.
- Point out the trends in drug abuse among youth in India. What measures can be taken to address these issues?
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the impact of the zero-tolerance policy on drug trafficking in India.
- The zero-tolerance policy has led to increase in drug seizures, reflecting stronger enforcement.
- Collaboration among law enforcement agencies has improved the efficiency of drug trafficking disruption.
- Increased seizures may deter some traffickers but could also push them to adopt more covert methods.
- Public awareness campaigns have been enhanced, contributing to societal resistance against drugs.
- Critics argue that while seizures have increased, the root causes of drug abuse and trafficking remain unaddressed.
2. What are the implications of the rise in synthetic drug seizures on public health? Discuss.
- Increased synthetic drug seizures indicate rising availability and consumption, posing health risks to users.
- Synthetic drugs often lead to severe addiction, mental health issues, and overdose cases.
- Public health systems may face greater burdens due to increased drug-related health emergencies.
- Awareness and educational programs are needed to inform the public about the dangers of synthetic drugs.
- Healthcare providers may require additional training to address the unique challenges posed by synthetic drug users.
3. Estimate the effectiveness of the ‘Whole-of-Government Approach’ in combating drug abuse in India.
- The approach has facilitated better coordination among various law enforcement and health agencies.
- It has resulted in increased drug seizures, suggesting a more unified response to drug trafficking.
- Resource sharing and joint operations have enhanced operational capabilities against drug networks.
- However, effectiveness is limited by the need for comprehensive policy addressing prevention and rehabilitation.
- Long-term success requires sustained collaboration beyond enforcement, including community engagement and education.
4. Point out the trends in drug abuse among youth in India. What measures can be taken to address these issues?
- There is a growing trend of drug abuse among youth, particularly with synthetic drugs and pharmaceuticals.
- Increased accessibility and social acceptance of certain drugs contribute to higher consumption rates.
- Peer pressure and mental health issues are factors influencing youth drug use.
- Preventive measures should include educational programs in schools about the risks of drug abuse.
- Community support systems and rehabilitation programs are essential in addressing addiction among youth.
