BRICS States Adopt Guwahati Declaration to Fight Drug Trafficking

The BRICS nations on Tuesday (July 7, 2026) adopted the Guwahati Declaration, reaffirming their commitment to strengthen cooperation in preventing and combating the illicit drug trade and related transnational organized crime. | Photo credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto

GUWAHATI

BRICS, the intergovernmental organization of major emerging market and developing countries, stands for Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. It has expanded to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Indonesia.

A joint statement by the heads of drug agencies of the participating countries brought the curtains down on the two-day meeting at a resort on the outskirts of Guwahati.

The BRICS states emphasized the need to improve the timely exchange of information, intelligence and best practices in accordance with national laws and international obligations. The declaration emphasized the promotion of innovative technologies, digital tools and data-driven approaches to strengthen law enforcement and regulatory efforts against drug trafficking.

BRICS countries have also expressed concern over the evolving nature of drug trafficking, the proliferation of synthetic drugs and new psychoactive substances, the misuse of precursor chemicals, the misuse of emerging technologies and virtual assets, and the use of maritime routes and digital platforms by transnational criminal networks.

Member countries highlighted the need to strengthen dedicated initiatives to reduce drug demand, promote healthy lifestyles and protect vulnerable people, especially children and youth, through comprehensive, evidence-based and people-centred approaches.

During the high-level meeting, India urged BRICS law enforcement agencies to build a partnership based on speed, mutual trust and seamless real-time intelligence sharing that crosses borders and enables decisive action against transnational drug syndicates.

Anti-drug plan

Anurag Garg, Director General of the Narcotics Control Bureau, said that India has adopted a policy of zero tolerance towards drugs and a three-year plan (2026-29) based on a network-centric approach. “The strategy focuses on breaking up entire criminal networks, preventing drug abuse through mass awareness campaigns and strengthening treatment, addiction and rehabilitation measures,” Mr Garg said.

Highlighting the hyper-connectedness and jurisdictionless nature of drug trafficking in the 21st century, Mr. Garg said that national drug agencies must network to break transnational drug trafficking networks. He called on the BRICS countries to continue the spirit of the Guwahati Declaration and work together towards the common goal of a drug-free world and a safer and healthier global community for future generations. He also proposed a virtual BRICS workshop group and enhanced cross-border education initiatives.

Published – 7 Jul 2026 22:47 IST