The challenge of drugs is not unique to Kerala. Across India, many states are confronting the same problem. The growth of synthetic drugs, the spread of interstate trafficking networks, and the rise of online drug markets have together made narcotics a truly national concern.

Our geography adds to the difficulty. India sits close to regions to both the northwest and the northeast that have historically been among the world’s major sources of narcotics. As a result, our law-enforcement agencies work continuously to keep drugs from entering our communities. The Government of India, the state governments, the police forces, the narcotics bureaus and the border agencies are all engaged in this effort.

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But enforcement alone, anywhere, has never been enough. The experience of state after state shows that success comes only when governments, educational institutions, families, community organisations and young people themselves work together. What is required is nothing less than a whole-of-society approach.

Drug abuse is a global challenge. No country — however rich, however developed — has wholly escaped it. From North America to Europe, from Latin America to Asia, governments are spending enormous resources to fight trafficking and addiction.

The international drug trade is worth many billions of dollars, and the criminal organisations behind it constantly change their methods. Technology has made the fight more complex still. Drugs can be ordered online, payments can be made digitally, and networks can operate across borders without ever meeting in person. For this reason, governments around the world are increasingly learning from one another and sharing what works. The fight against drugs has become a shared, global responsibility.

Part 1: Operation Toofan: A fight for Kerala’s youth, families and........

© Mathrubhumi English