NewKerala.com

US-India Launch Drug Policy Working Group to Combat Narcotics Trafficking

The United States hosted the inaugural meeting of the US-India Drug Policy Executive Working Group in Washington, DC. The group aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation against narcotics trafficking, precursor chemical diversion, and narco-terrorism. Officials from both nations emphasized a whole-of-government approach to protect communities and secure supply chains. The meeting reaffirmed a shared commitment to disrupting illicit drug networks and fostering a safer future.

Key Points: US-India Inaugural Drug Policy Working Group Meeting

  • Countering synthetic opioids & precursors
  • Disrupting illicit trafficking networks
  • Securing pharmaceutical supply chains
  • Balancing enforcement with legitimate trade
2 min read

US hosts inaugural meeting of first US-India Drug Policy Executive Working Group

US and India strengthen counter-narcotics partnership with new Executive Working Group, targeting synthetic opioids and narco-terrorism.

"The drug crisis is now a core national security priority. - Sara Carter"

Washington, January 27

The United States hosted the inaugural meeting of the US-India Drug Policy Executive Working Group in Washington, DC, from January 20 to 21, marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral cooperation against narcotics trafficking and related security threats, according to an official press release by the White House.

According to the official press release, Ambassador Vinay Kwatra, Ambassador of India to the United States of America, stated that India accorded the highest priority to addressing the threat posed by narcotics trafficking and the diversion of precursor chemicals, while also balancing effective enforcement with facilitation of legitimate trade.

Official Spokesperson of the MEA, Randhir Jaiswal, said, "India and the U.S. held the Inaugural Drug Policy Executive Working Group meeting in Washington DC (20-21 Jan 2026). Both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to countering synthetic opioids, novel precursors and misuse of digital platforms, while balancing effective enforcement with facilitation of legitimate trade."

The Office of National Drug Control Policy's (ONDCP) Director, Sara Carter, opened the meeting by emphasising President Trump and Prime Minister Modi's mutual commitment to strengthening security cooperation and eradicating narco-terrorism.

The Executive Working Group, led by ONDCP's Acting Deputy Director, Debbie Seguin, and the Narcotics Control Bureau's Deputy Director General, Monika Ashish Batra, worked with the U.S. and Indian delegations, respectively, to deliver tangible, measurable outcomes in advancing the critical counter-narcotics partnership.

"The drug crisis is now a core national security priority," said Director Carter. "This Executive Working Group leverages the bilateral partnership to protect families while also supporting legitimate industries."

According to the press release, both countries are committed to strengthening bilateral cooperation to dismantle the illegal production and trafficking of illicit drugs and their precursor chemicals that threaten our communities.

They emphasised the importance of a whole-of-government approach that streamlines interagency and intergovernmental efforts and secures the pharmaceutical supply chain, consistent with respective national rules and regulations, while also building upon the success of recent joint operations to disrupt illicit narcotic trafficking networks.

According to the press release, this meeting highlighted the United States' and India's enduring, shared commitment to addressing the global drug challenge and to fostering a safer, healthier future for both nations.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Good initiative. But I hope this doesn't become another bureaucratic talking shop. We need "tangible outcomes" as they said - more joint raids, intelligence sharing, and stopping the flow of drugs into our youth. Action on the ground matters more than meetings in DC.
R
Rohit P
The focus on digital platforms is crucial. So much drug trade happens on social media and dark web now. Our cyber crime cells need to work closely with American agencies. This partnership can save countless families from ruin.
S
Sarah B
As someone who has lived in both countries, I see the devastation of the opioid crisis in the US and the growing synthetic drug problem in Indian cities. This collaboration is long overdue and essential. Hope they share best practices on rehabilitation too.
K
Karthik V
Balancing enforcement with legitimate trade is the tricky part. Our pharma industry employs millions and is vital for global health. Any policy must not create unnecessary hurdles for genuine manufacturers. The "whole-of-government" approach mentioned is the right way.
N
Nikhil C
Narco-terrorism is a real threat to our national security. If this working group can help cut off funding to extremist groups through drug money, it will be a huge success. Strong borders and strong partnerships are both needed.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50