Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday directed all central and state government departments to prepare clear, time-bound roadmaps by March 31, 2026, to tackle the rising drug menace. He emphasized strong monitoring mechanisms to ensure focused and accountable action.
Chairing the 9th apex-level meeting of the Narco-Coordination Centre (NCORD) in New Delhi, Shah announced a three-year nationwide campaign against drug abuse starting March 31, 2026. The initiative will define roles for all stakeholders, set targets, and review progress regularly to achieve a ‘Drug-Free India’ and protect the youth. Departments are also tasked with preparing implementation plans through 2029 with periodic reviews.
Highlighting that drug abuse is linked to narco-terrorism, Shah called it a threat to national productivity, social harmony, and youth well-being. He inaugurated the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) office in Amritsar, stressed the role of Forensic Science Laboratories, and urged states to expedite the destruction of seized narcotics. State Directors General of Police were asked to prepare state-specific action plans and ensure timely disposal of confiscated drugs.
Established in 2016, NCORD operates through a four-tier structure—apex, executive, state, and district—to strengthen coordination between the Centre, states, and enforcement agencies in combating drug trafficking.
