Northeast India's Battle Against Drugs

Northeast India has been grappling with a severe drug problem, impacting social, economic, and security aspects of the region. The proximity to the Golden Triangle, porous borders, and socio-economic factors contribute to this complex issue.

Drug Trafficking and Consumption Patterns:

• Golden Triangle Connection: Northeast India's proximity to Myanmar, part of the Golden Triangle, makes it vulnerable to drug trafficking routes.
• Types of Drugs: Heroin (54.3%), opioids (47.1%), and methamphetamine (41.2%) are commonly abused in the region, particularly in Manipur.
• Youth Vulnerability: Young people (15-30 age group) are particularly susceptible to drug abuse, with 48.6% of respondents in Manipur using injectable drugs.

Challenges in Combating Drug Menace:

• Porous Borders: The 1,642-km border with Myanmar facilitates easy smuggling of drugs despite increased surveillance efforts.
• Political Instability: Civil war-like conditions in Myanmar create a conducive environment for drug cartels operating in Wa and Shan states.
• Insurgency-Drug Nexus: Some insurgent outfits in the region are allegedly involved in drug trafficking to fund their activities.

Government Responses and Initiatives:

• Hi-tech Surveillance: Deployment of long-range reconnaissance, observation, and battlefield surveillance radars along the Myanmar border.
• 'Drug-free India' Campaign: Destruction of about 40,000kg of narcotic substances across Northeast India in 2022.
• Technological Advancements: Use of drones, artificial intelligence, and satellite mapping to identify and control opium cultivation areas.

Impact and Statistics:

• Prevalence Rates: High opioid use rates in Arunachal Pradesh (22.1%), Mizoram (25.67%), Nagaland (25.22%), and Manipur (14.22%).
• Seizures and Arrests: 330,000 kg of drugs worth Rs 20,000 crore seized between 2014-2022, compared to 152,000 kg worth Rs 768 crore during 2006-2013.
• Health Concerns: Widespread drug addiction has led to increased HIV/AIDS infections in the region.

Way Forward:

• Comprehensive Approach: Need for a multi-pronged strategy addressing both supply and demand aspects of the drug problem.
• International Cooperation: Strengthening collaboration with neighboring countries, especially Myanmar, to tackle cross-border drug trafficking.
• Rehabilitation and Awareness: Expanding rehabilitation facilities and intensifying awareness campaigns, particularly among the youth.

UPSC Mains Question

Q. With reference to the drug problem in India, discuss the measures taken by the Government of India to tackle this menace. Also, discuss the role of NGOs and civil society in addressing this issue.