Why in news?
The 9th apex‑level meeting of the Narco‑Coordination Centre (NCORD) was held in January 2026, bringing together central and state agencies to review India’s fight against narcotics. Home Minister Amit Shah announced a nationwide three‑year campaign against drug trafficking and abuse starting on 31 March 2026.
Background
NCORD is a multi‑layered mechanism to coordinate drug law enforcement. At the top, an apex committee chaired by the Union Home Minister sets policies. Below it, an executive committee headed by the revenue secretary coordinates central agencies such as the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB). States and districts have their own NCORD committees to share intelligence, plan operations and raise public awareness.
Highlights of the 9th meeting
- Three‑year campaign: The government will run an intensive campaign from March 2026 to March 2029 to break drug supply chains, reduce demand and rehabilitate users. Ministries were asked to draw up action plans and performance indicators.
- Three‑pronged strategy: Authorities emphasised ruthless action against traffickers, sustained demand reduction through awareness and de‑addiction, and a humane approach toward persons with addiction.
- Increase in seizures and convictions: Since 2014, seizures of narcotics and cash by central agencies have been many times higher than in the previous decade. The meeting stressed the need to improve conviction rates by strengthening investigations and using forensic laboratories.
- Use of technology: Participants called for wider adoption of the NCORD portal for intelligence sharing and the 1932 helpline for public reporting. Regular destruction of seized drugs and development of forensic facilities were also discussed.
Significance
Drug trafficking undermines public health, fuels organised crime and jeopardises national security. The NCORD mechanism fosters coordination across agencies and jurisdictions, ensuring that information flows quickly and operations are better targeted. The three‑year campaign signals a long‑term commitment to reduce both supply and demand.
Conclusion
By combining strict enforcement with prevention and rehabilitation, India aims to build a comprehensive response to narcotics. Effective coordination at all levels of NCORD will determine whether the campaign achieves sustainable reductions in drug abuse and trafficking.
Source: Press Information Bureau
