Jammu and Kashmir authorities have significantly escalated their crackdown on drug-related crimes. Over the past 15 months, they have registered 1,978 cases, leading to 2,897 arrests and 350 detentions.
- 2024: 1,514 cases, 2,260 arrests, and 274 detentions under the NDPS Act.
- January-March 2025: 464 cases, 637 arrests, and 76 detentions.
Authorities have also seized approximately Rs 12 crore worth of properties belonging to drug dealers involved in large-scale narcotics operations.
Combating Drug Cultivation and Raising Awareness
Efforts to eradicate drug cultivation and raise public awareness are ongoing. In 2023-2024, authorities destroyed:
- Poppy crops on 273 acres of land.
- Cannabis on 1,642 acres of land.
Over 1,900 awareness programs were conducted across the region, with Kupwara and Handwara leading the initiative.
Strengthening Institutional Response
Since 2022, 195 training sessions have been held for 4,267 officials. In 2024, 27 departmental inquiries resulted in 16 punishments.
Expanding Treatment and Regulatory Measures
Approximately 20 treatment facilities are operational in Jammu and Kashmir. In the first quarter of 2025, these facilities registered 2,332 new patients and 77,382 follow-up visits.
In 2024, police and social welfare departments reported 1,762 new outpatient cases and 450 inpatient admissions. Plans are underway to expand services to Kulgam, Shopian, Pulwama, and Ganderbal districts.
To address potential pharmacy negligence, 22,379 licenses were reviewed in 2025, resulting in 73 suspensions and 4 cancellations.
