Law enforcement agencies in Andhra Pradesh are grappling with a dramatic surge in narcotics-related crimes, with arrests and cases under the stringent Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act skyrocketing by more than 250 percent over the last seven years. This alarming increase points to a significant expansion in the illegal drug trade, primarily involving cannabis (ganja), and a corresponding intensification of raids by authorities.
A Seven-Year Surge in Narcotics Enforcement
The data reveals a stark escalation. In 2018, authorities registered 547 cases leading to 1,319 arrests. By 2024, these numbers had ballooned to 1,869 cases and 4,692 arrests. This staggering growth underscores a dual reality: heightened police vigilance and a booming underground market. The Andhra-Odisha Border (AOB) region has been pinpointed as a critical hub and primary source for the illicit drug supply chain feeding this crisis.
Andhra Pradesh: A National Epicenter for Ganja Seizures
Between 2018 and 2024, Andhra Pradesh secured the dubious distinction of being the second-highest state in India for ganja seizures. A coordinated effort by the state police, excise department, Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), and the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence led to the confiscation of a massive 6,14,889 kilograms of dry cannabis alongside 255 kg of hashish oil. These operations resulted in the apprehension of more than 20,000 alleged drug peddlers.
Officials note that while the increased seizure numbers reflect successful raids, they also expose the growing involvement of inter-state smuggling networks in the ganja trade. A significant portion of cannabis seized across India is trafficked through Odisha and the AOB region.
The Rise of Sheelavathi: The New King of Cannabis
A key driver of this trade is a unique strain known as Sheelavathi, predominantly cultivated in the remote AOB region. Enforcement officials report that 60 to 80 percent of the seized ganja is of the Sheelavathi variety, which has gained immense popularity across the country, even surpassing the famed Malana Cream from Himachal Pradesh in demand.
This popularity has translated directly to black-market value. A senior police officer disclosed that the price of Sheelavathi ganja has soared, commanding between Rs 1.3 lakh to Rs 1.7 lakh per kilogram. Despite a recent satellite survey showing successful eradication in areas like Alluri Sitharama Raju (ASR) district, inter-state smugglers now source the weed from neighbouring Odisha, using Andhra Pradesh as a transit corridor to cities nationwide.
Smugglers are employing increasingly innovative methods to transport the contraband for high profits. Police have observed procurement from Odisha's Rayagada, Udayagiri, Brahmapur, and Parlakhemundi areas, with transportation via cars and trains to various destinations.
The scale of the problem is further reflected in the state's prisons. While there are about 130 to 140 convicted prisoners for narcotics offences, the number of remand prisoners is far higher, with approximately 1,000 in Vizag central prison and 280 in Rajahmundry central prison awaiting trial for similar charges. This indicates the vast number of recent arrests and ongoing legal processes in the state's fight against the drug menace.
