Narcotics Control Bureau

The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) is an Indian federal law enforcement and intelligence agency under the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. The NCB is responsible for combating drug trafficking and the use of illegal substances under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act. The agency's primary function is to fight drug trafficking on an all-India level and to coordinate with various international drug enforcement agencies.

History

The NCB was established on 17 March 1986 to enable the full implementation of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985. The agency was created to address the growing problem of drug trafficking and abuse in India.

Functions

The primary functions of the NCB include:

• Coordinating actions by various offices, state governments, and other authorities under the NDPS Act.
• Implementing the obligations under various international conventions and protocols.
• Assisting and advising the concerned ministries and departments in matters related to drug law enforcement.
• Monitoring India's frontiers to prevent the smuggling of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances.
• Collecting and disseminating intelligence related to drug trafficking.

Organizational Structure

The NCB is headed by a Director General (DG), who is an officer of the Indian Police Service or the Indian Revenue Service. The agency is divided into various zones, each headed by a Deputy Director General (DDG). The zones are further divided into regional units and sub-zones.

Operations

The NCB conducts operations to intercept and seize narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. It also works in close coordination with other law enforcement agencies such as the Central Bureau of Investigation, Border Security Force, Central Reserve Police Force, and state police forces. The NCB also collaborates with international agencies like the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and Interpol.

Challenges

The NCB faces several challenges, including the vast and porous borders of India, the sophisticated methods used by drug traffickers, and the increasing use of technology in drug trafficking. The agency also deals with issues related to the rehabilitation of drug addicts and the prevention of drug abuse.

Related Pages

• Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act
• Central Bureau of Investigation
• Border Security Force
• Central Reserve Police Force
• United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime
• Interpol

See Also

• Drug policy of India
• Drug addiction
• Law enforcement in India

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