Is a Stronger Fight Against the Drug Menace Needed? HM Amit Shah
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Synopsis
Union Home Minister Amit Shah highlights the urgent need for a united front against drug abuse during the ANTF conference. With alarming statistics and a call to action, he emphasizes the importance of safeguarding future generations from the devastating effects of drugs.
Key Takeaways
- A strong commitment is essential to combat drug abuse.
- Utilizing technology can enhance monitoring and enforcement efforts.
- Collaboration among various government sectors is vital.
- Educating the youth about the dangers of drug abuse is crucial for prevention.
- Regular reviews and strategy updates will ensure effective action against drug cartels.
New Delhi, Sep 16 (NationPress) Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized the severe repercussions of drug abuse and urged for a more vigorous response from enforcement agencies to safeguard lives and future generations.
Speaking at the 2nd National Conference of Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) Heads of States and Union Territories (UTs), HM Shah encouraged officials to dedicate a minimum of 12 days each year to tackling the drug crisis.
During the inauguration of the two-day national conference organized by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), HM Shah affirmed that the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is resolute in eradicating drugs from the country, noting that 69.61 lakh individuals related to the drug issue have been apprehended from 2014 to 2025.
He pointed out the enhanced efforts against drug cartels, revealing that the seizure of contraband increased from 26 lakh kg between 2004 and 2013 to over one crore kg from 2014 to 2025.
“Our youth demographic is vast and promising. If drug abuse escalates beyond a certain point, the repercussions will be long-lasting. Therefore, now is the critical time to combat this issue effectively to avert the devastation of lives and future generations,” stated HM Shah.
“Today, we unite after six years of strategic campaigns, planning, and reporting. We have developed coordination frameworks from grassroots to leadership levels and have widely shared data and intelligence. Significant progress has been achieved,” he added.
He urged the ANTF Heads of States and Union Territories (UTs) to utilize drones and other technological resources to monitor and identify cannabis cultivation and ensure its destruction within one month of planting.
Representatives from 36 states and Union Territories, along with stakeholders from various government sectors, are participating in the conference aimed at devising a plan to attain a drug-free India.
The conference, themed ‘United Resolve, Shared Responsibility’, is conducting a thorough review and evaluation of the collaborative efforts made by all stakeholders combating the drug menace.
In-depth discussions are being held on various aspects of drug supply, demand reduction, harm reduction, their implications for national security, and measures to enhance drug law enforcement in the country, alongside the necessity for a comprehensive governmental strategy to tackle the issue.
Point of View
I stand firmly with the nation's commitment to combating drug abuse. The government's proactive stance, led by HM Amit Shah, reflects a deep understanding of the societal impacts of drugs. It is imperative that we, as a society, rally together to support these initiatives and ensure a safer future for our youth.
NationPress
02/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What measures is the government taking against drug abuse?
The government is enhancing enforcement efforts, including increased seizures and arrests, while promoting the use of technology to detect and eradicate drug cultivation.
How many individuals have been arrested for drug-related offenses?
Since 2014, over 69.61 lakh individuals have been arrested in connection with drug offenses.
What is the goal of the ANTF conference?
The conference aims to formulate a comprehensive strategy for achieving a drug-free India by reviewing collective efforts and discussing future actions.
How can technology help in combating drug abuse?
Technology, such as drones, can be utilized to monitor and identify illegal cannabis farming, allowing for timely intervention.
Why is it important to fight against drug abuse now?
Addressing drug abuse is crucial to prevent long-term societal impacts and to protect the health and future of our youth.
