Shri Anurag Garg, a 1993-batch IPS officer from the Himachal Pradesh cadre, has carved an impressive trajectory in the field of Indian law enforcement. Recently appointed as the Director General of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), his career reflects a wealth of experience, dedication, and expertise in multiple facets of policing and national security. His appointment by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) signals a significant new chapter in his professional journey, one that will see him at the helm of India’s premier agency tasked with combating drug trafficking and abuse.
Anurag Garg began his career with the Indian Police Service (IPS) after being inducted into the 1993 batch from Himachal Pradesh. Over the years, he has built a reputation for his tenacity and effectiveness in handling various responsibilities across multiple departments. His early assignments saw him taking on roles in key police departments in his home state, where he worked closely with local law enforcement to address issues ranging from law and order management to crime investigation.
During these formative years, Garg honed his skills in operational policing, a discipline that would serve him well in future assignments. His leadership qualities and his ability to coordinate with both central and state agencies quickly became evident. In these roles, he showcased a nuanced understanding of the intersection between local criminal elements and broader national security concerns.
One of the key aspects of Anurag Garg’s career has been his involvement in national security, particularly through his contributions to the Border Security Force (BSF). Serving as Additional Director General (ADG) in the BSF, Garg played a pivotal role in the agency’s operations along India’s borders. His tenure here highlighted his strategic acumen in managing border security, preventing infiltration, and tackling cross-border criminal activities, including smuggling and narcotics trafficking.
The BSF, responsible for guarding India’s borders with Pakistan and Bangladesh, operates in a challenging environment where the constant threat of infiltration and cross-border terrorism requires round-the-clock vigilance. As ADG, Garg was instrumental in enhancing the operational efficiency of the force, focusing on modernizing border surveillance and improving inter-agency coordination with intelligence networks. His leadership helped streamline many of the BSF’s counter-infiltration efforts, contributing to greater security and stability in the border regions.
In September 2023, Garg was appointed as the Director General of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), a role that reflects the culmination of his extensive experience in law enforcement and national security. The NCB, established under the Ministry of Home Affairs, is India’s nodal agency responsible for fighting drug trafficking and enforcing drug laws. It plays a critical role in intelligence gathering, enforcement actions, international cooperation, and public awareness campaigns aimed at curbing the use of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances.
Garg’s appointment comes at a time when the global narcotics trade has evolved, with drug cartels becoming increasingly sophisticated in their operations. The NCB’s work has grown in complexity, particularly with the rise of new synthetic drugs and the increasing prevalence of online drug markets. In this challenging environment, Garg’s background in border security and inter-agency coordination is expected to enhance the bureau’s ability to tackle drug-related crimes.
As the head of NCB, Garg has articulated a clear vision for the bureau’s future. He has emphasized a multi-pronged approach that includes not just enforcement but also prevention and rehabilitation. His tenure has seen a renewed focus on intelligence-led operations, leveraging data analytics and modern technology to track and dismantle drug trafficking networks. Under his leadership, the NCB has strengthened its collaborations with state police forces, customs authorities, and international agencies to ensure a comprehensive approach to combating drug-related offenses.
One of Garg’s key initiatives has been to foster greater public awareness about the dangers of drug abuse. Recognizing that law enforcement alone cannot solve the drug menace, he has called for increased engagement with civil society, educational institutions, and healthcare providers to address the root causes of addiction. His emphasis on rehabilitation and de-addiction programs represents a holistic approach to the problem, one that aims to offer long-term solutions by helping individuals and communities recover from the impact of drugs.
Furthermore, under his leadership, the NCB has sought to expand its global partnerships. Given the transnational nature of the drug trade, cooperation with international organizations like the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and law enforcement agencies in other countries is crucial. Garg has been instrumental in enhancing India’s participation in global forums on drug control, aiming to ensure that India’s borders remain impenetrable to the illicit drug trade.
While Anurag Garg has made significant strides in strengthening the NCB’s capabilities, several challenges lie ahead. The rise of dark web drug markets, the increasing role of cryptocurrencies in illicit transactions, and the evolving tactics of drug cartels present a complex and ever-changing landscape. However, Garg’s experience in handling border security and his commitment to modernizing the NCB provide a strong foundation for addressing these challenges.
Looking forward, Garg’s tenure as Director General of NCB, which runs until May 23, 2026, is expected to be marked by a continued focus on innovation, collaboration, and a strong enforcement framework. His leadership will likely emphasize the importance of adapting to new challenges while maintaining the bureau’s core mission of protecting India from the scourge of narcotic drugs.
Shri Anurag Garg’s appointment as Director General of the Narcotics Control Bureau reflects a career built on dedication, strategic thinking, and a deep commitment to national security. With decades of experience in both state-level policing and national security roles, Garg is well-equipped to lead the NCB in its fight against drug trafficking. His leadership promises to further enhance the bureau’s capabilities, ensuring that it remains a critical force in safeguarding the health and security of Indian society. As the country grapples with the complex challenges posed by the global narcotics trade, Garg’s stewardship of the NCB is a vital step in building a drug-free India.
