How is the Delhi government tackling the drug crisis?
Synopsis
The Delhi government is stepping up its efforts against the drug crisis by forming a new Advisory Board led by retired judge Dharmesh Sharma. This initiative is designed to enhance cooperation between various stakeholders in tackling narcotics issues more effectively.
Key Takeaways
Advisory Board formed to combat drug issues.
Led by retired judge Dharmesh Sharma .
Initial term of one year .
1,179 narcotics cases registered in 2022.
70% conviction rate for drug-related offenses.
New Delhi, Feb 20 (NationPress) In a bid to enhance its fight against narcotics, the Delhi government has established a three-member Advisory Board, headed by retired High Court judge Dharmesh Sharma. This initiative aims to improve collaboration among officials, law enforcement, and various stakeholders, as stated by an official on Friday.
The Advisory Board, which will serve an initial term of one year, also includes advocates Nalin Kohli and Gajender Kumar, as per the official statement.
The creation of this Board was mandated by Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena and officially documented in the Delhi Gazette on February 17.
The official notice read, "Utilizing the powers granted by Sub-Section 9 (a) of the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substance Act, 1988, the Lieutenant Governor of the National Capital Territory of Delhi has constituted an Advisory Board under The Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (PITNDPS) Act, 1988. This Board will operate from its headquarters in Delhi starting February 17, 2026, with an initial term of one year or until further notice."
According to the latest statistics from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), Delhi recorded 1,179 cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substance (NDPS) Act in 2022.
The conviction rate for these cases reached 70 percent.
In the previous year, 566 cases were documented under the NDPS Act, with a conviction rate of 65.5 percent.
In 2020, the Delhi Police and other law enforcement agencies documented 748 drug-related cases under the NDPS Act, achieving a conviction rate of 55.6 percent, according to NCRB data.
The Union Home Ministry reported that a scheme titled "Assistance to States and Union Territories for Narcotics Control" was launched on October 24, 2004, to support state and Union Territory governments in enhancing their enforcement capabilities against illegal trafficking under the NDPS Act.
This scheme has been implemented by the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Narcotics Control Bureau.
Continuing its efforts, the scheme has been extended from 2021-22 to 2025-26 with a budget of Rs 50 crore, as stated by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Funds allocated under this scheme for the fiscal years from 2020-21 to 2024-25 amounted to Rs 10.85 crores, according to statements up to July 2025.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the proactive measures taken by the Delhi government in addressing the alarming rise in drug-related offenses. The establishment of the Advisory Board signifies a commitment to collective action and legal frameworks, underscoring the importance of collaboration in combating the drug menace that affects many lives. This initiative reflects a broader national concern and a determined approach to ensure public safety.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the newly formed Advisory Board?
The Advisory Board aims to enhance coordination among officials, law enforcement, and stakeholders in the fight against narcotics in Delhi.
Who leads the Advisory Board?
The Board is led by retired High Court judge Dharmesh Sharma.
How long will the Advisory Board serve?
The Advisory Board has an initial term of one year.
What are the recent statistics on drug-related cases in Delhi?
In 2022, Delhi reported 1,179 cases under the NDPS Act, with a conviction rate of 70%.
What financial support is available for narcotics control?
The Centre has a scheme to assist states and Union Territories in narcotics control, with an outlay of Rs 50 crore extended until 2025-26.
