Drones, encrypted apps fuel drug trade, Punjab worst-hit: Government in Rajya Sabha

Drones and encrypted digital platforms are increasingly used by drug trafficking syndicates to smuggle narcotics, with Punjab identified as the most affected border state in India, as per a government statement in the Rajya Sabha.

In 2025, 305 drone-related drug trafficking incidents were reported nationwide, 298 along the Punjab border, leading to seizure of 460 kg of narcotics including 448 kg heroin, 9 kg methamphetamine, and 3 kg opium.

India has set up a task force on Darknet and Cryptocurrency under the Multi Agency Centre mechanism to enhance intelligence sharing and coordinated action against technology-enabled drug trafficking.

The government is deploying advanced anti-drone systems, surveillance systems (CCTV, PTZ, NVD), and strengthening border fencing to combat cross-border narcotics smuggling.

Drug peddlers use sophisticated digital platforms to avoid detection, as revealed by investigations, according to Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai.