Amit Shah Chairs Ninth NCORD Apex-Level Meeting

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah chaired the 9th Apex-Level Meeting of the Narco-Coordination Centre (NCORD) at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi, reaffirming the Government of India’s commitment to eliminating the drug menace. On the occasion, he also inaugurated the Narcotics Control Bureau office at Amritsar. The meeting, organised in hybrid mode by the Narcotics Control Bureau, saw participation from central ministries, state governments, and drug law enforcement agencies.

Roadmap for a Drug-Free India

Addressing the gathering, the Home Minister called for all departments to prepare a comprehensive roadmap extending up to 2029, supported by a time-bound review mechanism. He stressed that the drug problem is closely linked to narco-terrorism rather than merely a law-and-order issue, describing it as a conspiracy targeting India’s future generations. He announced that from March 31, 2026, a three-year nationwide collective campaign will be launched to define clear targets, working methodologies, and review systems.

Three-Pronged Strategy Against Drugs

Shri Shah outlined a three-pronged approach to achieve a drug-free India. This includes a ruthless strategy against the drug supply chain, a strategic approach to demand reduction, and a humane approach towards harm reduction and rehabilitation of victims. He underlined that there should be zero tolerance for those involved in manufacturing or trafficking drugs, while compassion must guide efforts towards addicts. Strengthening command, compliance, and accountability was identified as central to effective enforcement.

Enforcement Outcomes and Operational Focus

Highlighting enforcement gains, the Home Minister stated that during 2004–2013, drugs worth ₹40,000 crore were seized, while between 2014–2025, seizures rose sharply to ₹1.71 lakh crore. The quantity of drugs disposed of has increased eleven-fold, and significant progress has been made against synthetic drugs. He also noted large-scale destruction of illicit opium cultivation, expanding from 10,770 acres in 2020 to about 40,000 acres by November 2025.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• NCORD was established in 2016 to enhance inter-agency coordination against drug trafficking.
• The NCORD mechanism follows a four-tier structure from apex to district level.
• Drug control strategy integrates supply reduction, demand reduction, and harm reduction.
• Forensic Science Laboratories play a key role in drug-related investigations and convictions.

Institutional Framework and Future Direction

The NCORD framework comprises apex, executive, state, and district-level committees to ensure coordinated action. Shri Shah directed all departments and state police leadership to prepare focused roadmaps, speed up destruction of seized drugs, and improve conviction rates. Emphasising India’s goal of becoming a global leader by 2047, he said protecting the youth from drugs remains a top national priority.