Tripura’s Uncompromising War on Drugs: A Model for Prevention and Rehabilitation on International Anti-Drug Day
Devid Debbarma
June 26, 2025
As the world observes the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the focus is sharpened on the global need to combat substance abuse through awareness, prevention, and policy action. This year’s theme — “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention” — highlights the critical role of long-term, community-centered strategies in curbing the menace of drugs.
In this context, Tripura’s determined and evolving fight against drugs stands out as a model worth national attention. Over the past seven years, the state has transitioned from a vulnerable border region frequently exploited by traffickers to one of the most assertive states with a robust model of anti-drug campaign and crackdown in Northeast India.
Tripura’s Transformation Since 2018
Tripura’s anti-drug mission gained momentum with the formation of the first BJP government in 2018. Under the leadership of the then Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb, Tripura government took a resolve to detect and neutralise the parallel economy that essentially grew centering illicit trafficking of drugs and ganja cultivation. His administration initiated a zero-tolerance policy toward drug trafficking which is heavily inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Nasha Mukt Bharat” campaign.
This commitment was further strengthened under Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha, who took office in 2022 and has since continued to intensify enforcement, rehabilitation, and community outreach. Both the heads of the state's political executive established the state’s position: there will be no compromise when it comes to protecting the youth and future of Tripura. In accordance, multi-pronged efforts had been undertaken.
Disruption of Drug Trafficking Networks
Tripura’s strategic location, bordering Bangladesh on three sides, had long made it a target for inter-state and cross-border drug routes. However, through coordinated efforts by Tripura Police, BSF, and anti-narcotics agencies, the state has significantly reduced both incoming and outgoing narcotics flows.
Over the years, law enforcement agencies have conducted high-profile raids, seizing large quantities of heroin, cannabis, cough syrup, and synthetic drugs. Intelligence-led operations have dismantled smuggling syndicates, while stricter surveillance along highways and border outposts has disrupted key trafficking corridors.
The biggest challenge lies with Tripura’s geographical proximity with the infamous golden triangle. The political instability in Myanmar only gave rise to the strength and force of drug cartels operating in the region. The North East has always been a geographical victim of the drug cartels.
Prevention and Rehabilitation: A Balanced Approach
Tripura’s strategy goes beyond arrests and seizures. It places strong emphasis on rehabilitation, awareness, and reintegration — essential pillars for a sustainable solution to drug abuse.
In a landmark initiative, the state government is establishing one of Northeast India’s largest rehabilitation centres at Bishramganj, with a proposed budget of ₹100 crore. The facility will offer:
• In-patient de-addiction services
• Mental health counseling and therapy
• Vocational training for recovering individuals
• Structured programs for reintegration into society
Additionally, NGOs, student groups, faith-based institutions, and civil society organizations have played a vital role in running awareness campaigns, especially in schools and vulnerable rural areas.
Towards a Nasha Mukt Tripura
From enforcement to prevention, Tripura’s efforts reflect a comprehensive and compassionate approach to drug control. The government’s clear message — as repeatedly emphasized by Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha — is that drug addiction is not only a law-and-order issue, but a social and moral crisis that must be tackled at every level.
Tripura’s ongoing efforts are not merely a response to a crisis; they are a vision for a drug-free future, rooted in community, care, and commitment.
Due to the interventions of the state government, a zonal unit of the Narcotics Control Bureau was also established.
( The author is BJP State Secretary, Tripura Pradesh )
(Tripurainfo)
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