Page 23 - SMUGGLING IN INDIA REPORT FOR 2020-2021

Jagjit Pavadia
President
International Narcotics Control Board
MESSAGE
On behalf of the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB), I extend my sincere felicitations to the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) on the occasion of its 64th Foundation Day.
Over the years, DRI has established itself as a professional organization not only acting as a bulwark for India’s economic frontiers by preventing the leakage of Customs revenue through commercial fraud but has also proved to be extremely effective in preventing other forms of transnational organized crime, including drug trafficking. INCB, as the monitoring body for the implementation of the United Nations international drug control conventions, greatly appreciates the efforts of the DRI to prevent the diversion of drugs and precursors from licit sources to illicit channels.
I note that in matters of drug interdiction, DRI has several notable successes to its credit, including the seizure of over 23 tons of methaqualone in 2016, dismantling India’s first (and till now only) illicit fentanyl lab in 2018 and, most recently, in September 2021 effecting a seizure of nearly 3 tons of heroin from containerized cargo in a port in Western India – the largest ever by India. Through its stellar efforts and smart intelligence, DRI has been able to expose and disrupt drug trafficking groups, including those involving foreign nationals, operating in India.
As the world witnesses the proliferation of synthetic drugs, new psychoactive substances, synthetic opioids and designer precursors, DRI’s role in confronting these challenges is extremely critical not only for India but also beyond its border.
The INCB congratulates DRI on its successful journey over the course of sixty-three years and looks forward to working with it to support international drug control efforts.
International Narcotics Control Board
Jagjit Pavadia