Bihar launches month-long anti-drug campaign to tackle narcotics rise
Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary has given police complete freedom to dismantle drug supplier networks during the Nashamukt Bihar Abhiyan launch.
The Bihar government launched the month-long Nashamukt Bihar Abhiyan in Patna on Tuesday to address a rise in narcotics seizures and drug-related cases. The campaign, organised by the Prohibition, Excise and Registration Department, will run from October 27 to November 26.
Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary told DGP Preeta Verma and ADG (Law and Order) Ratan Sanjay that they have complete freedom to break the back of criminals in the sector. He said drug suppliers must be dealt with firmly and their networks dismantled.
Choudhary noted that after the 2016 liquor ban, people began looking for alternatives such as smack and charas. He stated that Bihar's prosperity depends on the younger generation and that drug addiction could push the state towards ruin.
The campaign will use a WhatsApp chatbot, a de-addiction helpline, and awareness vehicles with audio-visual material. The government plans to involve students, the Brahma Kumaris, and the Jeevika network of approximately 1.81 crore women.
Eight districts, including border areas, have been identified for intervention, with Patna, Vaishali, Samastipur and Ara requiring particular attention. Bihar registered 1,905 cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act in the first five months of 2026.
Choudhary defended the 2016 prohibition decision, stating the government prioritised public welfare over revenue. He also cited Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s target of making the country drug-free by 2029.