A. Bhuvaneswari, Vels Institute of Science Technology and Advanced Studies
Prof Dr. S. Ambika Kumari, Vels Institute of Science Technology and Advanced Studies
ABSTRACT
The evolution of drug use and trade, both in India and globally, has been shaped by historical, cultural, and economic factors. In India, the acceptance of substances like opium and cannabis dates back centuries, with shifts in usage patterns influenced by colonial policies, international conflicts, and socioeconomic developments. The introduction of synthetic drugs and the global rise of recreational substances have amplified the challenges posed by drug trafficking and addiction. Historically, India’s role as a producer and transit hub has been pivotal, with its borders particularly with Pakistan, Nepal, Myanmar, and Bangladesh—being exploited for illicit trafficking. Globally, regions such as Afghanistan, East Africa, and Europe have become central to the production, transit, and consumption of narcotics, creating complex networks fuelled by organized crime. Efforts to combat drug trade, including the NDPS Act of 1985 and international treaties, have established stringent legal frameworks to deter trafficking. However, issues like weak governance, organized crime, and shifting drug markets continue to undermine these measures. This article underscores the urgent need for a holistic approach, encompassing strict legal enforcement, international cooperation, and public awareness, to mitigate the socio-economic and security impacts of the drug trade.
Keywords: Drug, Drug trafficking, Organized crime, NDPS Act.
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