ncb-proposes-office-in-mizoram-to-curb-drug-menace

In a meeting with Mizoram chief minister Lalduhoma in Aizawl on Tuesday, Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) Director General Anurag Garg proposed a dedicated NCB-zonal office in the state to intensify the fight against drug trafficking.

 

The meeting also focused on strengthening border security and enhancing enforcement mechanisms along the India-Myanmar border, which has become a major transit route for narcotics entering India.

 

Acknowledging that the state's increasing struggle with drug abuse and trafficking and emphasised the importance of stronger collaboration, Garg proposed the establishment of a dedicated NCB zonal office in Mizoram, which would enable better coordination, intelligence-sharing and rapid response to drug-related crimes. He also highlighted the necessity of recruiting personnel proficient in the local language to ensure more effective enforcement.

 

“A zonal office will help us share manpower and intelligence more efficiently and respond swiftly to trafficking networks,” Garg said.

 

During the meeting, CM Lalduhoma reiterated his request to the Union Home ministry for the formation of a Mizo Territorial Army, specifically trained and equipped to combat drug trafficking and smuggling operations originating from Myanmar. He stressed the urgent need for a robust, locally integrated force to tackle the growing narcotics menace in the region.

 

“We need more manpower and better policing infrastructure along the international border to effectively combat drug trafficking from South Asian countries,” the chief minister stated, adding, “The proposed Mizo Territorial Army could play a pivotal role in addressing this challenge.”

 

CM Lalduhoma also urged the NCB to provide technical assistance and expert input to enhance Mizoram’s anti-narcotics strategy.

 

According to data from the Mizoram Excise & Narcotics Department, the state has witnessed a significant surge in drug trafficking over the past year. Methamphetamine seizures increased from 154.17 kg in 2023 to 627.74 kg in 2024, while heroin seizures rose from 68.05 kg to 80.81 kg over the same period—indicating a pressing need for stronger counter-narcotics action.

 

As cross-border trafficking continues to rise, both state and central agencies appear committed to forging closer coordination and bolstering infrastructure to stem the flow of drugs into India’s northeastern states.