Narco Reward scheme: Between October 2021 and December 2024, 87,607 kg of drug worth ₹16,155cr have been seized in Gujarat.
In a significant move to curb drug abuse, Gujarat has become India’s first state to introduce a special Narco Reward Scheme, aimed at incentivizing efforts to tackle narcotics-related offences.
Between October 2021 and December 2024, authorities in Gujarat have seized 87,607 kilograms of drugs worth ₹16,155 crore, highlighting the scale of the drug menace in the state.
Overview of the Narco Reward Scheme
The Narcotics Reward Policy, implemented by Gujarat’s home department, is designed to reward informants, police personnel, and other government employees who play a critical role in the seizure of narcotic substances and the successful prosecution of drug-related crimes.
Key Features of the Scheme
- Incentives for Informants and Officers:
- Informants who provide accurate information leading to the seizure of narcotics are eligible for up to 20% of the seized substance’s value.
- Government employees, including police officers and authorized personnel under the NDPS Act, 1985, are eligible for financial rewards based on the success of their operations, the risks involved, and their vigilance.
- Reward Limits:
- Informants can receive up to 20% of the market value of the seized substances.
- Government employees have a career cap of ₹20 lakh, with a maximum of ₹2 lakh per case.
- Private individuals assisting in official work may receive ₹2,500 per case.
- Eligibility and Distribution:
- Rewards are given based on the specificity and accuracy of the information provided, the level of risk, and the significance of the seizure.
- In the event of the death of an informant or government employee, the reward is transferred to their legal heir or nominee.
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Implementation and Impact
The policy has led to significant financial rewards being distributed:
- The DGP Committee has approved rewards totaling ₹51,202 for 64 individuals.
- The ACS, Home-level Committee has sanctioned ₹6.36 crore for 169 individuals.
- A proposal for rewarding 737 individuals with ₹5.13 crore is under review by the NCB Committee.
The Fight Against Narcotics in Gujarat
Gujarat Police’s aggressive efforts have resulted in the seizure of a massive quantity of drugs and the arrest of over 2,500 suspects.
The Narco Reward Scheme is a strategic move to enhance these efforts by motivating individuals and officials to actively participate in eradicating the drug trade in the state.
By implementing this pioneering scheme, Gujarat sets a precedent for other states, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and government support in the fight against drug abuse.
