Maharashtra’s new Anti-Narcotics Task Force, based at the CID headquarters in Pune, begins operations to tackle the growing drug trade. The initiative aims to protect communities through enforcement, rehabilitation, and awareness.
Pune | 19 July, 2025: In a determined move to safeguard its communities, Maharashtra has launched a powerful Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) to combat the rising tide of drug trafficking and abuse. Headquartered at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Pune, the task force began operations on July 19, 2025, marking a significant step in the state’s fight against the drug crisis. This initiative reflects a deep commitment to protecting the youth and families affected by the devastating impact of narcotics, offering hope for a safer future.
The ANTF, led by a Special Inspector General of Police, operates across all 36 districts of Maharashtra, except Mumbai, which has its own anti-narcotics cell. The task force is tasked with dismantling complex drug networks, raising public awareness, and supporting the rehabilitation of those struggling with addiction. By centralizing operations under the CID in Pune, the state aims to streamline efforts, ensuring swift and coordinated action against smugglers and peddlers who exploit vulnerable communities.
The drug trade has cast a shadow over Maharashtra, with substances like mephedrone, heroin, and cocaine increasingly infiltrating cities and towns. The rise in cases has alarmed authorities, as young people, in particular, fall prey to addiction, impacting their health, families, and futures. The ANTF’s formation comes in response to this growing menace, with the state government emphasizing a zero-tolerance approach. The task force will investigate high-profile cases, monitor smuggling trends, and collaborate with local police to ensure no corner of the state remains untouched by their efforts.
Beyond enforcement, the ANTF is focused on prevention and recovery. Awareness campaigns are being rolled out to educate communities about the dangers of drug abuse, while rehabilitation programs aim to offer addicts a path to recovery. The task force’s holistic approach recognizes that fighting drugs isn’t just about arrests—it’s about rebuilding lives and restoring hope. By working with schools, NGOs, and local leaders, the ANTF seeks to empower communities to resist the lure of narcotics.
The launch of the ANTF is a beacon of hope for families affected by the drug crisis. It signals Maharashtra’s resolve to confront this challenge head-on, with Pune as the nerve center of this critical mission. As the task force begins its work, residents are encouraged to support its efforts by sharing information and staying vigilant. This collective fight against drugs is a chance to protect the state’s youth and build a healthier, stronger Maharashtra.
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