Subject: Internal Security

India's strategic location between the Golden Crescent (Afghanistan-Pakistan-Iran) and Golden Triangle (Myanmar-Thailand-Laos) has made it vulnerable to transnational drug trafficking networks. The complex web of illicit activities stemming from drug trade poses significant challenges to India's internal security architecture.

Linkages between Drug Trafficking and Other Illicit Activities

1. Drug Trafficking - Money Laundering Nexus:

• Hawala Networks: Drug money is laundered through informal channels and legitimate businesses to obscure its illegal origins.
• Shell Companies: Creation of front organizations to channel drug proceeds into the formal economy.
• Cryptocurrency: Usage of digital currencies for anonymous transactions and money laundering.

2. Drug Trafficking - Gunrunning Connection:

• Cross-border Networks: Drug routes are simultaneously used for weapons trafficking.
• Terror Financing: Drug profits fund procurement of weapons for terrorist organizations.
• Insurgency Support: Drug trade sustains militant groups in North-East India and Left Wing Extremism affected areas.

3. Drug Trafficking - Human Trafficking Correlation:

• Shared Routes: Criminal networks utilize same trafficking corridors for drugs and humans.
• Organized Crime: Syndicates diversify their operations across multiple illegal activities.
• Vulnerable Population: Drug addicts often become victims of human trafficking.

Countermeasures

1. Legislative and Institutional Framework:

• Strengthening NDPS Act implementation and enhancing NCB capabilities.
• Improving coordination between ED, DRI, and state police forces.
• Enhanced implementation of PMLA for targeting financial networks.

2. Border Management:

• Installation of Integrated Border Management Systems.
• Strengthening intelligence sharing with neighboring countries.
• Enhanced coastal surveillance through Coastal Security Scheme.

3. International Cooperation:

• Active participation in SAARC Drug Offences Monitoring Desk.
• Bilateral cooperation through Mutual Legal Assistance Treaties.
• Joint operations with international agencies like UNODC.

The rising drug seizures in Manipur (worth US$193 million between July 2022-23) highlight the magnitude of the challenge. India needs a comprehensive strategy combining enforcement, rehabilitation, and international cooperation to effectively combat this multi-dimensional threat to internal security.