Amit Shah Aims for Narcotics-Free India by 2029
Union Home Minister Amit Shah announces a national initiative to combat drug abuse, targeting a narcotics-free India by December 2029.
Amit Shah emphasizes the government's focus on eradicating drug abuse.
A nationwide motorcycle rally was launched to promote the fight against drugs.
The upcoming Ekta Diwas parade will celebrate the end of armed Naxalism and honor police sacrifices.
In a significant announcement, Union Home Minister Amit Shah declared on Wednesday that the Ministry of Home Affairs is prioritizing the fight against drug abuse, aiming to achieve a narcotics-free India by December 31, 2029. Speaking at an event in New Delhi to commemorate Police Commemoration Day, Shah highlighted the progress made in establishing peace in Jammu & Kashmir, the Northeast, and areas affected by left-wing extremism (LWE). He noted that 2026 would mark a pivotal year for Indian law enforcement, as it would signify the end of violent Naxalism, which has plagued the nation for decades.
Shah expressed gratitude towards the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), particularly its CoBRA battalion, and the Chhattisgarh Police for their crucial roles in combating LWE. He urged police forces across the country to actively engage in the 'nasha-mukt Bharat' initiative, which aims to rid the nation of narcotics. As part of this campaign, Shah also inaugurated a nationwide motorcycle rally themed around the fight against drugs, featuring five riders from each of India's 36 states and Union territories, along with nine Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs). This rally will culminate in Kevadia, Gujarat, where participants will join the Ekta Diwas parade on October 31.
During the Police Commemoration Day ceremony, Shah honored the memory of 36,852 police personnel who have lost their lives in the line of duty by laying a wreath at the National Police Memorial. He emphasized the importance of recognizing their sacrifices as the nation moves forward in its fight against crime and drug abuse.
The Ekta Diwas parade will not only celebrate the end of armed Naxalism, with a deadline set for March 31, 2026, but will also commemorate 150 years of the anthem 'Vande Mataram.' Approximately 7,000 participants from 126 districts previously affected by LWE will attend the event, showcasing their resilience and cultural heritage. This gathering will also include around 5,000 local residents, reinforcing the theme of national integration through cultural expression, as noted by Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan.
Looking ahead, the government is committed to utilizing the remaining part of 2026 and the subsequent three years to intensify efforts against drug abuse. The upcoming events, including the Ekta Diwas parade, will serve as platforms to highlight the ongoing challenges and achievements in restoring peace and safety across the nation.
