Meghalaya Vows to Eradicate Drug Trafficking

Meghalaya's Social Welfare Minister, Paul Lyngdoh, has expressed confidence in the state's ability to eliminate drug trafficking, mirroring its successful efforts in quelling insurgency using its own police force. The minister asserts that the state has made significant strides in combating the drug menace, with seizures worth over Rs 400 crore and the arrest of over 1000 drug peddlers and users in the past five years. Lyngdoh emphasized the importance of protecting the state's young population, which comprises 65% of the residents, from the allure of drugs and other substances of abuse.

Key Takeaways:

• Meghalaya's government is committed to eradicating drug trafficking, leveraging the state's internal capabilities and resources.
• The Anti-Narcotic Task Force (ANTF) has played a crucial role in recent seizures of heroin worth Rs 4 crore and the arrest of five inter-state drug traffickers, including three women from Manipur.
• Drug seizures worth over Rs 400 crore and the arrest of over 1000 drug peddlers and users in the past five years indicate the state's growing effectiveness in combating the drug menace.
• The government is working with various agencies, including the Narcotic Control Bureau, Border Security Force, and ANTF, to coordinate a multi-faceted approach to tackle the issue.
• The ANTF has been felicitated for its dedication and bravery in disrupting the supply chain of drugs.
• The government is investing in de-addiction centers, vocational training, and other initiatives to protect Meghalaya's young population from the allure of drugs.

Statistics:

• Drug seizures worth over Rs 400 crore in the past five years.
• Arrest of over 1000 drug peddlers and users in the past five years.
• 65% of Meghalaya's residents are below 35 years of age, making youth a critical segment for government initiatives to prevent drug abuse.
• ANTF has disrupted the supply chain of drugs in Meghalaya.

Sources:

• United News of India.