Amit Shah Sets 2029 Deadline to Uproot India's Drug Trade

Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the 3rd National Conference of Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) heads in New Delhi on September 22, 2026. During the two-day event, Shah established a deadline of December 31, 2029, to uproot the drug trade from India, guided by the Vision Document on Narcotics Control (2026-2029).

Shah directed enforcement agencies to shift from a seizure-centric approach to the dismantling of entire trafficking networks, including cartels at entry points and inter-state distribution systems. He instructed state governments to deal ruthlessly with smugglers and peddlers through asset confiscation under the PIT-NDPS Act and speedy trials in special courts. The strategy includes the deportation of foreign nationals involved in trafficking and the apprehension of fugitives operating abroad.

While advocating for strict enforcement against traffickers, Shah called for a humanitarian approach toward addicts, treating them as victims in need of rehabilitation. To support these efforts, he launched a revamped website for the lead agency, released anti-drug television commercials, and laid foundation stones for new zonal complexes in Lucknow and Dehradun. He also recognized the Telangana Anti-Narcotics Task Force as the best-performing state body. The conference focused on enhancing investigative capabilities regarding cryptocurrency and the Dark Net to disrupt illicit financial flows.