The National Assembly Standing Committee on Interior and Narcotics Control convened a meeting at Parliament House to address the country’s drug problem and strengthen counternarcotics efforts. Chaired by MNA Raja Khurram Shahzad Nawaz, the meeting was attended by National Assembly members representing various political parties, officials from the Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control, Islamabad police leadership, and other relevant federal and provincial representatives. The committee reviewed the previous month’s counternarcotics operations and endorsed a revamped National AntiDrug Policy.

This updated strategy includes improved surveillance methods, enhanced interagency communication, and expanded public awareness initiatives. A central point of discussion was strengthening collaboration between law enforcement agencies and antinarcotics agencies, focusing on effective information sharing and joint operational strategies. The committee also reviewed operational plans at the police station, district, and provincial levels for the next three months, including joint operations at specific locations. A proposal for an improved reporting and monitoring mechanism was also accepted, incorporating regular meetings, digital data management, and a userfriendly smart card app for reporting.

Key committee recommendations included the immediate establishment of a 24/7 national drug information hotline, increased resources and training for the AntiNarcotics Special Force, and the formation of joint police and antinarcotics task forces for continuous antismuggling activities. A public awareness campaign targeting students and parents through educational institutions and digital platforms was also emphasized. Recognizing the shared responsibility of federal and provincial governments in addressing the drug problem, the committee stressed a plan for improved communication and resource allocation. Chairman Nawaz, emphasizing the importance of national unity in the fight against drug trafficking, stated, “Complete eradication of drugs is a national duty that requires deep cooperation between the federation and the provinces. The committee will focus on decisive action at every level.” The committee’s recommendations will be submitted to the Prime Minister’s Office, with a liaison working group meeting scheduled soon and another operational review next month.