(a) whether the Government has any mechanism to curb the spread of illicit drugs through the ‘dark web’;
(b) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor; and
(c) the fresh steps taken by the Government for developing a more focused approach with enforcement agencies for upgrading the skills for cracking down effectively online drug trade particularly in Maharashtra, Bihar and Rajasthan?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS
(SHRI NITYANAND RAI)
(a) to (c): To curb the spread of illicit drugs through the dark web in the country, including in the state of Maharashtra, Bihar and Rajasthan, the following measures have been taken:
• Regular training of the field officers on “cyber and forensic technologies” and “collection of evidence through electronic means”.
• Sensitization programme for personnel of post offices and courier companies.
• Coordination with drug law enforcement agencies of other countries for sharing intelligence related to dark web on regular basis.
• Assistance to states under the scheme “Assistance to States for Narcotics Control” for improving their enforcement capability, which includes procurement of electronic surveillance systems.
• Setting up of the Training Centre on Drug Law Enforcement at the Central Academy for Police Training, Bhopal, under the Bureau of Police Research & Development (BPR&D).
******