Topic: linkages of organized crime with terrorism
Q6. “India’s geographical location makes it vulnerable not only to drug trafficking but also to becoming a transit hub in global narcotics chains.” Assess the strategic risks arising from India’s transit-route vulnerability. Outline measures to strengthen surveillance against narcotics trafficking. (15 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: IE
Why the question
Recent seizures of synthetic narcotics such as Captagon and growing concerns over transnational drug trafficking have highlighted India’s vulnerability as both a destination and transit route in global narcotics networks, making it significant for internal security.Key Demand of the question
The question requires assessment of the strategic and security risks arising from India’s geographical and transit-route vulnerability in global narcotics chains. It also demands outlining measures to strengthen surveillance and anti-trafficking mechanisms against narcotics smuggling.Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Briefly mention India’s location between the Golden Crescent, Golden Triangle and major maritime trade routes, linking narcotics trafficking with internal security challenges.Body
- Statement dimension: Briefly explain how India’s geography, trade connectivity and porous borders increase risks of becoming a transit hub for global narcotics trade.
- Strategic risks arising from transit vulnerability: Discuss implications such as narco-terror financing, organised crime expansion, maritime security risks and money laundering concerns.
- Measures to strengthen surveillance: Suggest intelligence-led policing, coastal and border surveillance, inter-agency coordination, technological monitoring and international cooperation mechanisms.
Conclusion
Conclude with the need for a technology-driven and globally coordinated anti-narcotics framework to secure India’s borders and prevent its misuse in transnational drug networks.
