Illicit cross border drug flow in India and its security implications a study of western border of Punjab

Abstract

Integrating qualitative and quantitative methods, this study illustrates how cross border trading of drugs threatens the safety, security and sovereignty of India, and also contributes to the global menace that is narco-terrorism. Starting with a roadmap to establish drug use, abuse and trade in the world, and more specifically, in a particular region of India - that is Punjab. It also details the method of study undertaken by the researcher to arrive at conclusions regarding the drug menace in Punjab and suggest proactive solutions. The historical background is significant to establish not just the chronological history of drugs and other psychotropic substances as commercial and trade-worthy commodities, but also to provide a conceptual framework of how the demand and supply nexus increased over time and turned into trafficking from trade. This detailing of the historical origins of drug consumption in the world and the drugs that are popularly used in the present times is essential to establish and study the patterns of drugs and their trade. The role of drug producing countries and how they adversely affect international politics and pose threats to the security on the global stage has also been detailed. The study highlights the intersection of the cultural, social, and economic conditions that impact drug usage and trafficking in Punjab. The study analyses the relation between drugs and global terror. The study then offers proactive suggestions and policy changes to tackle the problem of drug abuse and trafficking and strengthen Indiaand#39;s security and defence strategy. newline