Full Form of NDPS

Full formLaw & Legal
NDPSstands for

Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances

What is NDPS?

The term NDPS stands for Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, a cornerstone of India's legal framework to combat drug abuse and illicit trafficking. Enshrined in the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, this legislation prohibits the production, manufacture, possession, sale, purchase, transport, warehousing, use, consumption, import inter-State, export inter-State, import into India, export from India, or transshipment of any narcotic drug or psychotropic substance except for medical or scientific purposes and in the manner and to the extent provided by the provisions of the Act. The Act came into effect on 14 November 1985, replacing earlier laws like the Opium Act, 1878, and the Dangerous Drugs Act, 1930. It classifies substances into various Schedules and prescribes stringent punishment based on the quantity of the substance involved – small, less than commercial, and commercial quantities. The NCB (Narcotics Control Bureau) is the apex coordinating agency for enforcement. The NDPS Act is frequently in the news for high-profile seizures, and it also includes provisions for the treatment and rehabilitation of addicts. In the context of competitive exams like UPSC, State PSCs, and judiciary services, questions on NDPS Act sections, punishments, and landmark judgments are common, making it a critical area in law and general studies.

NDPS का फुल फॉर्म

नारकोटिक ड्रग्स और साइकोट्रोपिक पदार्थ

Example

The accused was charged under the NDPS Act after being found in possession of 5 kilograms of charas, a commercial quantity attracting rigorous imprisonment.

NDPS — frequently asked questions

What is the full form of NDPS?
The full form of NDPS is Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, denoting the controlled substances regulated under the NDPS Act, 1985 in India.
What is the punishment under the NDPS Act for possession of commercial quantity?
For possession of commercial quantity, the NDPS Act prescribes rigorous imprisonment for a term not less than 10 years, extendable to 20 years, and a fine not less than 1 lakh rupees, which may extend to 2 lakh rupees. The court can impose a higher fine for reasons recorded in the judgment.
Which agency enforces the NDPS Act in India?
The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) is the national nodal agency responsible for enforcing the NDPS Act, coordinating with state police, customs, and other central agencies to curb drug trafficking and abuse.
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