India has expanded its international efforts to combat drug trafficking by strengthening cooperation with several countries, including the United States. Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai informed the Lok Sabha that India has established bilateral agreements with 27 nations and signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with 19 countries to improve coordination against illegal drug networks.
Responding to questions raised by Shiv Sena MPs Naresh Ganpat Mhaske and Shrikant Shinde, Rai highlighted the role of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in maintaining regular discussions with international agencies. The NCB conducts Director General-level meetings and bilateral talks with countries such as Myanmar, Nepal, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Singapore, and the US to enhance cooperation and address challenges related to cross-border drug trafficking.
The minister also outlined the government’s newly introduced Vision Document on Narcotics Control (2026-2029), which was released on June 26. The three-year strategy establishes specific priorities and deadlines for different stakeholders involved in preventing drug abuse and disrupting illegal narcotics operations. The initiative follows a “Whole-of-Government” and “Whole-of-Society” approach, encouraging collaboration among government bodies, enforcement agencies, and communities.
Rai further explained that the NCB has strengthened its coordination framework through the four-tier Narco-Coordination Centre (NCORD) mechanism. The system is designed to improve information sharing and cooperation between central and state-level drug enforcement agencies, along with other organizations involved in combating narcotics-related crimes.
To support investigations into major drug cases, including those connected to narco-terrorism, the government has established a Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) led by NCB Director General Anurag Garg. The committee will monitor significant investigations and ensure better coordination among agencies.
The minister added that new financial investigation guidelines have been introduced to help authorities track, identify, and seize assets generated through illegal drug activities. These measures aim to weaken the financial networks supporting narcotics operations.
Through stronger international partnerships, improved enforcement mechanisms, and a structured national strategy, India continues to intensify its fight against drug trafficking while working closely with global partners, including the United States.
