Nation-wide anti-narcotics fortnightly drives to begin from September

India is set to initiate a comprehensive, year-long national enforcement drive against drug trafficking, commencing in September. This multi-pronged operation, spearheaded by anti-drugs trafficking agencies, aims to systematically dismantle drug syndicates operating within the country.

The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has outlined an action plan involving 24 distinct special drives, each lasting a fortnight, which will continue until August of the following year. These operations will target various aspects of the drug trade, including identifying foreigners involved in drug crimes for deportation, apprehending absconding narcotics offenders, and inspecting medical shops and pharmacies to prevent the diversion of pharmaceutical drugs for illicit purposes.

Further initiatives planned include preparing dossiers on drug crime fugitives, raising awareness about maritime drug trade among coastal communities, and conducting coordinated checks at all land, sea, and airports in the latter half of December. The plan also earmarks specific periods for detecting and destroying illicit cultivation, conducting awareness drives in chemical industries regarding precursor chemicals, and joint inspections of jails.

These fortnightly campaigns are designed to complement existing regular tasks and the targets set forth in the recently unveiled National Vision Document for Narcotics Control 2026-29. Officials believe these coordinated efforts will not only strengthen inter-agency collaboration but also significantly boost public awareness, contributing to the national goal of achieving a 'Nasha Mukt Bharat' (drug-free India).