Punjab News : Punjab Records Second-Highest NDPS Cases in 2024 Despite Declining Trend

Punjab has witnessed a steady decline in the number of cases registered under the Narcotics, Drugs, and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act over the past three years. According to data presented by the Ministry of Home Affairs in Parliament, the state recorded 9,025 cases in 2024, compared to 11,564 in 2023 and 12,423 in 2022.

Punjab Ranks Second Nationally

Despite the decline, Punjab had the second-highest number of NDPS cases among all Indian states in 2024. In the previous two years, the state ranked third, with Maharashtra recording higher figures. However, in 2024, Kerala topped the list with 27,701 cases, followed by Punjab. Across the country, 89,913 cases were registered under the NDPS Act in 2024, showing a drop from 1,09,546 in 2023 and 1,02,769 in 2022.

Crackdown on Drug Trafficking

The Punjab Government has intensified efforts to curb drug trafficking. In the past 11 days alone, police have registered 1,072 cases and arrested 1,485 individuals. Additionally, the Border Security Force (BSF) has confiscated approximately 35 kg of narcotics and neutralized over 45 drones used for smuggling from Pakistan.

Regional and National Comparisons

Other states in the region reported varying trends. Haryana recorded 3,062 cases in 2024, down from 3,718 in 2023, while Himachal Pradesh saw 1,634 cases, a drop from 2,045. Meanwhile, Rajasthan has seen a rise in drug-related cases, increasing from 3,738 in 2022 to 5,462 in 2024.

Strengthened Border Security Measures

Given Punjab’s proximity to an international border, authorities remain vigilant against smuggling operations. Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai emphasized that border forces, including the BSF, Assam Rifles, and Sashastra Seema Bal, have been authorized under the NDPS Act to carry out search, seizure, and arrest operations. The Railway Protection Force has also been tasked with monitoring drug trafficking along railway routes.