Drug Abuse and Trafficking in India: Challenges and Responses

This issue is critical for internal security, public health, social justice, and international relations. It tests understanding of India's geographical vulnerabilities, law enforcement challenges, social welfare policies, and the role of technology in crime and counter-crime efforts.

Drug abuse and illicit trafficking pose significant challenges to India's public health, social fabric, and national security. Situated between the Golden Crescent and Golden Triangle, India faces threats from both international smuggling routes and domestic production, compounded by evolving methods of trafficking and societal barriers to rehabilitation.

Mains (GS2): Government Policies and Interventions for Development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation (e.g., welfare schemes, rehabilitation, legal frameworks).

Mains (GS3): Linkages between development and spread of extremism; Role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security (e.g., drug trafficking, border security, cyber security).