Agartala, June 24: Warning that narcotics trafficking and drug abuse are emerging as serious social and security challenges in Northeast India, Tripura Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Tinku Roy and West Tripura District Magistrate Dr. Vishal Kumar on Wednesday called for a united societal response to tackle the growing menace, stressing that government action alone cannot eliminate substance abuse.

The remarks were made during an awareness rally organized in Agartala to mark the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, where hundreds of students, government officials, and members of civil society gathered to promote a drug-free society.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the event, Dr. Vishal Kumar highlighted the changing nature of the drug problem in Tripura. He noted that while the state was traditionally viewed as a transit corridor for narcotics moving through international routes, recent years have seen a disturbing rise in local drug consumption.

“Earlier, drugs largely passed through the region, but now consumption has also become a concern. The challenge has intensified due to instability and law-and-order issues in neighbouring countries, particularly Myanmar and Bangladesh,” he said.

The District Magistrate pointed out that Tripura’s strategic location, sharing an international border with Bangladesh and lying close to Southeast Asia’s notorious “Golden Triangle,” makes it particularly vulnerable to cross-border drug trafficking. He emphasized that while law enforcement agencies are actively targeting trafficking networks, public participation remains essential for lasting success.

Minister Tinku Roy echoed these concerns and said the state government has significantly expanded awareness campaigns and anti-drug initiatives. However, he stressed that rallies and government programmes alone cannot solve the problem.

“A drug-free society cannot be built through slogans alone. Every citizen, family and guardian must take responsibility. Individual commitment is crucial to eliminating drug abuse,” Roy said.

The Minister also announced that the government is strengthening rehabilitation infrastructure. A nearly 100-bed de-addiction hospital is being established at Bishramganj, while smaller de-addiction centres are being developed across all districts. He identified students and unemployed youth as particularly vulnerable groups and said rehabilitation efforts are being linked with skill development programmes to help recovering addicts rebuild their lives.

Both leaders emphasized that awareness, education, rehabilitation and strict law enforcement must work together to effectively combat the growing threat of narcotics trafficking and drug abuse in Tripura and the wider Northeast region.