India’s proximity to two of the world’s biggest illicit opium-growing states has enhanced her internal security concerns. Explain the linkages between drug trafficking and other illicit activities such as gunrunning, money laundering and human trafficking. What counter-measures should be taken to prevent the same?

Threats to Internal Security:

(1) Drug Trafficking ↳ Degenerative impact on society especially youth ↳ Compromises coastal security (2) Arms Smuggling ↳ The complementary nature of the two hotspots complicates the threats. ↳ Drugs finance import and manufacturing of arms which are used by radical organisations working against India. eg. Kashmir, North East etc. (3) Human Trafficking ↳ The well established smuggling routes are used for flesh trade extensively. ↳ eg. Bengal, North East → Thailand. (4) Terror Financing ↳ Money generated is used to finance terrorist organisations and separatist forces to instigate rebellion.

Thus, India's position not only threatens it with conventional crimes, but also leads to several other illicit activities resulting in a catastrophic concoction of crime detrimental to our national interests.

Suggestions (1) Strengthen Border Infrastructure (2) Stringent Regulations and Punishments (3) Human Resource and Skill Development (4) Capacity Building to curb the menace of drug addiction