How is the Assam Rifles Tackling Narcotic Drugs & Psychotropic Substances?

Synopsis
In a groundbreaking move to combat narco-terrorism and drug trafficking in Manipur, the Assam Rifles recently held a two-day intensive session on the NDPS Act. This initiative aims to bolster the legal framework and operational capabilities of personnel facing the challenges posed by drug networks.
Key Takeaways
- Intensive training on NDPS Act
- Focus on legal and operational skills
- Collaboration with Narcotics Control Bureau
- Importance of ethical enforcement
- Addressing narco-terrorism in Manipur
Imphal, May 17 (NationPress) In a dedicated effort to enhance the rule of law and tackle the escalating issues of narco-terrorism and drug trafficking in Manipur, the Assam Rifles organized a two-day extensive brainstorming session focused on the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, officials confirmed on Saturday.
On May 16 and 17, 2025, the HQ IGAR (South) conducted a specialized program on the NDPS Act at the Headquarters Assam Rifles (South), supported by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB).
A Defence spokesperson informed that this two-day event was facilitated by the expertise of senior IPS officer R. Sudhakar, Deputy Director General of the NCB, along with P.R. Mishra, Additional Director of the NCB, and other officers from NCB Imphal.
As Manipur increasingly becomes a vulnerable route for narcotics and arms trafficking, the Assam Rifles is dedicated to improving the legal and operational skills of its members.
The workshop addressed crucial components of the NDPS Act, such as prohibited activities, penalties, search and seizure methods, burden of proof, and judicial procedures, the spokesperson noted.
Modules also explored significant court judgments, roles of different agencies, and the necessity of ethical enforcement in fragile socio-political contexts.
The program concluded with a closing statement from Major General Ravroop Singh, Inspector General of the Assam Rifles (South), who stressed the importance of enhancing skills in both legal and technological fields.
He pointed out the advanced tactics employed by trafficking networks and emphasized the need for inter-agency collaboration, the application of forensic and digital tools, and strict compliance with legal protocols to effectively address these challenges.
This initiative reflects the Assam Rifles' proactive stance in restoring stability and upholding justice in the region, according to the spokesperson.
Myanmar, which shares a 1,643 km unguarded border with four northeastern states—Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, and Mizoram—acts as a crucial transit point for drugs, especially heroin and methamphetamine tablets, entering India.