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APSC Answer Writing (Daily) based on Assam Tribune – 08/02/2025

For APSC CCE and other Assam Competitive examinations aspirants, practicing Daily Answer Writing is vital. This blog covers the most important Main question and its model Answer from the Assam Tribune today (08-02-2025).

Q. The rise in drug trafficking in Northeast India poses a serious challenge to national security, public health, and economic stability. Analyze the factors contributing to the increase in narcotics trade in the region and suggest a multi-pronged strategy to counter this menace.” (250 words, 15 marks)

Model Answer

Introduction

Northeast India has become a major hub for drug trafficking, primarily due to its proximity to the Golden Triangle (Myanmar, Laos, Thailand)—one of the world’s largest narcotics-producing regions. The increasing flow of heroin, methamphetamine (Yaba tablets), and opium has not only fueled organized crime and insurgency but has also led to a public health crisis with rising drug addiction rates.

Factors Contributing to Rising Drug Trafficking in Northeast India

Geographical Location & Porous Borders
- The region shares a 1,600+ km porous border with Myanmar, allowing easy smuggling of narcotics.
- Remote terrain makes it difficult for security forces to monitor illegal crossings.
Rise in Synthetic Drugs
- Smugglers are shifting from traditional opium and heroin to synthetic drugs like methamphetamine, which is easier to transport.
- Myanmar-based drug syndicates are increasing their operations along the Indo-Myanmar border.
Insurgency and Narco-Terrorism
- Insurgent groups like NSCN, ULFA, and PLA-Manipur use drug money to fund armed operations.
- Militants provide safe routes for smugglers in exchange for financial support.
Weak Law Enforcement & Corruption
- Limited coordination between state police, BSF, and NCB weakens enforcement efforts.
- Corruption among border officials enables traffickers to escape prosecution.
Local Drug Demand and Addiction Crisis
- Rising drug abuse among youth and unemployed populations worsens the problem.
- Increased HIV/AIDS cases due to intravenous drug use in Assam, Manipur, and Nagaland.

Impact of Drug Trafficking on Northeast India

Threat to National Security
- Drug cartels are funding insurgent groups, fueling militancy.
- Proliferation of illicit arms trade alongside narcotics smuggling.
Public Health & Social Breakdown
- Rising addiction among youth leads to higher crime rates and social unrest.
- Increased cases of mental health disorders and HIV/AIDS infections.
Economic Consequences
- Loss of productivity as drug addiction affects the workforce.
- Government spends huge funds on rehabilitation and law enforcement.

Multi-Pronged Strategy to Counter Drug Trafficking

✅ Strengthening Border Security & Intelligence Sharing

Deploy advanced surveillance technologies (drones, AI-based tracking) along borders.
Enhance coordination between BSF, Assam Rifles, NCB, and IB.

✅ Stronger Law Enforcement & Legal Reforms

Fast-track courts for drug-related cases to ensure quick convictions.
Stricter implementation of the NDPS Act, 1985, with higher penalties.

✅ International Cooperation & Regional Diplomacy

Strengthen India-Myanmar counter-narcotics cooperation.
Work with ASEAN and UNODC (United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime) to tackle transnational drug smuggling.

✅ De-addiction and Rehabilitation Programs

Increase the number of rehabilitation centers in Manipur, Assam, and Nagaland.
Launch awareness campaigns in schools and colleges to prevent drug abuse.

✅ Alternative Livelihoods for Opium Farmers

Implement crop substitution programs in Myanmar and Northeast India.
Promote legal cash crops like coffee, rubber, and medicinal herbs.

Conclusion Drug trafficking in Northeast India is a multi-dimensional challenge that requires coordinated action between security agencies, legal frameworks, international diplomacy, and public awareness programs. A comprehensive and sustained effort is necessary to protect national security, safeguard public health, and ensure socio-economic stability in the region.

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