Raipur, India — Union Home Minister Amit Shah has made a powerful pledge to create a “drug-free India,” emphasizing that the nation must dismantle entire drug networks to achieve this ambitious goal. Speaking at the inauguration of the Narcotics Control Bureau’s (NCB) new zonal office in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, on Sunday, Shah described drugs as a global menace that threatens India’s youth, economy, and national security.
The Fight Against Drugs: A National Imperative
During the event, which was also marked by a review meeting on the state’s narcotics situation, Shah underlined the urgency of addressing the drug problem with “intensity, seriousness, and a comprehensive strategy.” He stressed that illicit drug trafficking severely impairs national security, as the profits from this trade often fuel terrorism and left-wing extremism, further weakening the nation’s economy.
“Everyone should move forward together on the zero-tolerance policy against narcotics and fulfill PM Modi’s resolve of a drug-free India,” Shah stated. He pointed out that the Central Government is committed to ending the drug trade by establishing NCB offices in every state, with the cooperation of state governments.
A Ruthless Approach to Dismantling Drug Networks
Shah emphasized the need for a “Top to Bottom” approach in combating drug trafficking. “Unless we attack the entire network, we will not be able to achieve the goal of a drug-free India,” he declared, highlighting the necessity of using scientific methods in investigating drug-related cases. The Home Minister outlined four key principles in this fight: detection of drugs, destruction of the network, detention of the culprits, and rehabilitation of addicts.
A Decade of Progress in Anti-Drug Efforts
Shah shared significant statistics to illustrate the progress made in combating drug trafficking in recent years. Between 2004 and 2014, a total of 1,250 drug-related cases were registered in India. However, from 2014 to 2024, this number skyrocketed to 4,150 cases, marking a 230% increase. Similarly, the number of arrests rose from 1,360 between 2004 and 2014 to 6,300 in the following decade.
Conclusion
Amit Shah’s firm commitment to eradicating the drug menace reflects the government’s determination to secure the future of India’s youth and strengthen national security. By dismantling drug networks and adopting a zero-tolerance policy, the government aims to turn the vision of a “drug-free India” into reality, ensuring a safer and healthier nation for all.