NCORD Maps Tough, Tech-Enabled Strategy Against Drug Menace
The 16th Union Territory-level meeting of the Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD) recently convened. The Chief Secretary chaired this important session. It reviewed critical measures against the drug menace. Enforcement, prosecution, treatment, and rehabilitation were key topics. A new, stringent strategy was mapped out. This plan is tech-enabled. It aims for result-oriented action.
Multi-Pronged Attack Against Drugs
The Chief Secretary stressed zero tolerance. Drug traffickers face harsh consequences. Licenses and passports can be canceled. This sends a strong message. The strategy has five core pillars. It starts with demand reduction. Intensive Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaigns are vital. These highlight legal and social impacts. Grassroots counseling is also planned. Trained counselors will be available. Accessible treatment services are crucial. This ensures needed care is close by. Strong enforcement remains a priority.
Significant Seizures Made
Enforcement efforts yielded substantial results. Field operations seized large quantities. This included 296 kg of charas. Heroin seizures totaled 53.8 kg. Ganja seizures reached 397 kg. The illegal drug trade is vast. Over 27,500 capsules were also seized. These contained Pregabalin and Tapentadol. This highlights pharmaceutical abuse. Additionally, authorities destroyed 736 acres of illicit cultivation. This targeted cannabis and poppy farms. These actions disrupt supply chains.
Technology Powers Enforcement
Technology plays a key role. An AI-based assistance tool was showcased. It helps investigating officers. It also aids prosecutors. The tool assists in framing charges. It guides investigations. It analyzes judgments. This technology supports the NDPS Act. Wider rollout is planned. Command centers will monitor hotspots. Real-time CCTV surveillance is key. This targets vulnerable areas. Satellite imagery helps detect illegal farms. This includes cannabis cultivation. Immediate destruction follows.
Community Engagement is Crucial
Community involvement is essential. It acts as a force multiplier. Over 689 rallies took place. Numerous seminars were held. These raised public awareness. Public-Police Cooperation Group meetings totaled 3,747. These efforts build partnerships. They foster a holistic approach. This combines enforcement with public support. Spiritual organizations also joined. Mission SPANDAN integrates spirituality. It aims for widespread awareness. It fosters a spiritual dimension. This engages communities effectively.
Increased Convictions and Assets Seized
Enforcement actions are showing impact. In 2025, 1,863 FIRs were registered. This led to 2,592 arrests. Judicial outcomes improved too. There were 229 convictions. These involved 270 persons. Preventive detention orders were executed. These incapacitated 240 habitual offenders. Financial choking of drug syndicates is a focus. Jammu and Kashmir ranks third nationally. This is for property attachments. Assets worth ₹70.67 Cr were attached. In 2025 alone, 259 houses and 111 vehicles were seized. Properties worth another ₹50 crore are pending.
Future Outlook and Challenges
The strategy addresses prosecution delays. Video conferencing will speed up trials. The Law Department will examine bottlenecks. Capacity building for officers is underway. Extensive public awareness efforts continue. The government reaffirms its commitment. A zero-tolerance policy is in place. The aim is a drug-free India. This is a continuous, evolving fight. New tools and equipment are constantly needed. This news highlights ongoing efforts. It shows a determined national push. The fight against drugs is trending.
