India Intensifies Anti-Drug Campaign Across Jammu & Kashmir
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha says narco-terror funding networks will be dismantled through coordinated enforcement and youth awareness drives
NEW DELHI/BANDIPORA, May 27: The Union Territory administration of Jammu and Kashmir intensified its anti-drug crackdown with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha declaring that narco-terrorism remains one of the gravest threats to national security and social stability in the region. Addressing a mega public gathering during the “J&K Nasha Mukt Abhiyan” in Bandipora, the Lieutenant Governor stressed that drug trafficking networks are directly aiding terrorism by financing anti-national activities.
The administration announced a multi-layered strategy involving law enforcement agencies, educational institutions, village defence committees and civil society organisations. According to officials, the campaign aims not only to curb smuggling routes but also to rehabilitate affected youth through counselling and skill development programmes.
Security agencies have increased surveillance along vulnerable border stretches where narcotics are allegedly being pushed through cross-border routes. Officials said several coordinated operations were carried out during the past week leading to the seizure of narcotics, illegal cash and communication equipment linked to smuggling syndicates.
Speaking at the event, Manoj Sinha urged parents, teachers and religious leaders to actively participate in awareness programmes. He said the administration would continue to target financial networks supporting drug distribution and terrorism simultaneously.
The campaign has also expanded into educational institutions. Schools and colleges across Kashmir and Jammu divisions are being directed to organise anti-drug seminars, awareness rallies and counselling sessions. Experts from healthcare institutions are being involved to educate students about the psychological and physical dangers of addiction.
Officials from the Home Department stated that the government is planning to strengthen de-addiction centres in district hospitals and improve rehabilitation facilities for recovering addicts. Social welfare departments are expected to receive additional funding to expand outreach programmes in vulnerable districts.
Security analysts believe the crackdown reflects a broader national strategy aimed at dismantling narco-financing structures operating in border regions. Intelligence agencies have repeatedly warned that proceeds from drug smuggling are increasingly being used to fund militant recruitment and illegal weapon procurement.
The anti-drug campaign has also gained support from local communities, with youth groups participating in padyatras and awareness events. Residents in several districts have demanded stricter monitoring of pharmaceutical sales and internet-based drug distribution networks.
The administration said the campaign would continue throughout 2026 with special focus on rehabilitation, intelligence sharing and public participation.
