Narcotics Confiscations in India: Cannabis and Opium Dominate 2024 Seizures

According to NCRB's 2024 data, India saw over 9.42 lakh kilograms of drug seizures. Cannabis-based substances topped the list with 5.37 lakh kilograms, led by ganja. Opium derivatives followed, with 3.69 lakh kilograms seized. Synthetic drugs, medicinal misuse, and precursor chemicals were significant parts of the enforcement landscape.

In a significant crackdown on narcotics, India witnessed the seizure of over 9.42 lakh kilograms of drugs in 2024, with cannabis and opium derivatives taking the lead, according to newly released NCRB data.

Cannabis-based drugs were at the forefront, accounting for 5.37 lakh kilograms of the seizures, the bulk of which was ganja. Meanwhile, opium-based substances ranked second, totaling 3.69 lakh kilograms, with poppy husk being a major component.

Despite lower volumes, synthetic and psychotropic substances were confiscated in large numbers. Enforcement agencies reported a concerning rise in medicinal drug diversion, seizing significant quantities of tablets, liquid formulations, and precursor chemicals. This comprehensive operation also led to the seizure of millions of cannabis and poppy plants.