India expresses concern over opium cultivation in neighbouring countries

VIENNA - India has expressed concern that more than 90 percent of the world’s opium production is taking place in its neighbourhood.

Taking part in the 53rd session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) in Vienna, Secretary, Department of Revenue of the Finance Ministry Sunil Mitra claimed that the Indian enforcement agencies have achieved significant success in busting clandestine laboratories and seizure of illicit drug trade.

He also stressed the fact that new trafficking trends have emerged and that the increasing use of chemicals stimulants are not subject to any international control.

Mitra also said that new challenges of linkages between drug trafficking and organized crime as well as terrorism should also be tackled.

Referring to control over chemicals that can be used to illicitly manufacture drugs (technically called precursors), Mitra informed the Commission that India was willing to share its experience and expertise in regulating precursors with any country that might benefit.

The Revenue Secretary, who led the six member Indian delegation at the CND Session, highlighted the new area of concern related to the misuse of Internet pharmacies for smuggling drugs.

Mitra further said that the problem needs to be tackled at a global level. (ANI)