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Operation Sagar Manthan: Combating Maritime Drug Trafficking

The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), in collaboration with the Indian Navy and Coast Guard, has undertaken Operation Sagar Manthan, an ambitious initiative to curb maritime drug trafficking. As part of this operation, authorities recently seized 700 kg of methamphetamine, highlighting the growing threat of narcotics smuggling through India's maritime routes.


Methamphetamine: A Growing Concern

Methamphetamine, a potent and highly addictive stimulant, significantly affects the central nervous system. Known for its euphoric effects, its abuse poses severe health risks and fuels illicit trafficking networks. Such networks often exploit India's extensive coastline, making counter-narcotics operations like Sagar Manthan vital.


About Operation Sagar Manthan

Launch

Initiated by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in partnership with the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard, Operation Sagar Manthan is a proactive effort to neutralize drug trafficking through maritime routes.


Objectives

  1. Target Drug Trafficking

    • Disrupt narcotics trade that threatens India's maritime security.

  2. Ensure National Security

    • Address challenges posed by organized crime syndicates.

  3. Vision of a Nasha Mukt Bharat (Drug-Free India)

    • Contribute to achieving a drug-free India by 2047, aligning with the larger national mission.


Operational Significance

  • Strengthens maritime security and surveillance capabilities.

  • Builds inter-agency coordination for real-time intelligence sharing and effective responses.


Maritime Drug Trafficking: A National Challenge

India’s extensive coastline of 7,500 km is susceptible to drug smuggling, with maritime routes often used for transporting narcotics to and from Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. Enhanced global collaboration and stricter enforcement measures are essential to counter these challenges.


Government Initiatives to Tackle Drug Menace

  1. Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB)

    • Central agency for combating drug-related crimes.

  2. National Policy on Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances

    • Focuses on prevention, supply reduction, and rehabilitation.

  3. NCORD Mechanism

    • Enhances inter-agency coordination.

  4. VISION 2047

    • Long-term goal to eradicate drug abuse.


Way Forward

  • Strengthen international collaborations to combat transnational drug cartels.

  • Invest in advanced surveillance technologies, including drones and satellite monitoring.

  • Foster public awareness campaigns to prevent drug abuse and involve civil society in anti-narcotics efforts.



Practice Question

Consider the following statements regarding Operation Sagar Manthan:

  1. It is a maritime operation launched by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in collaboration with the Indian Navy and Coast Guard.

  2. The operation primarily targets arms smuggling along maritime routes.

  3. It aligns with India’s vision of achieving a drug-free nation by 2047.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 1 and 3 only

(c) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2, and 3


Answer: (b) 1 and 3 only

Explanation:

  • Statement 1 is correct; Operation Sagar Manthan is a maritime operation by the NCB in coordination with the Indian Navy and Coast Guard.

  • Statement 2 is incorrect; the operation primarily targets drug trafficking, not arms smuggling.

  • Statement 3 is correct; it contributes to India’s goal of achieving a drug-free nation by 2047.



 
 
 

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