Important Definitions
1. Narcotics:
In Section 2 of the NDPS Act, certain terminology used in the act is defined. Narcotics are defined in a completely different way in the law than they are when used as a sleep aid. Coca leaf, cannabis (hemp), opium, poppy stems, derivatives/concentrates of any of these substances, and additional substances announced by the government in its official gazette are all considered narcotic drugs under Section 2(xiv) of the Act. In line with S.O. 1350 (E) dated 13.3.2019, along with the currently notified manufactured drugs, a few modifications to substances, salts, and preparations thereof have also been declared manufactured drugs. Narcotics are chemicals that make the senses less effective and relieve pain. In the past, the term “narcotics” was used to refer to all types of drugs, but it is now more commonly used to refer to heroin, its derivatives, and its semi-synthetic forms. These medicines are referred to as opioids as well. Heroin and prescription medications like Vicodin, codeine, morphine, and others are a couple of examples. The term “drugs” is also frequently used to describe opioid painkillers. Their main function is to treat severe pain that other painkillers are unable to appropriately manage. They can be quite helpful in the treatment of pain, provided that they are used cautiously and under the direct supervision of a healthcare professional.
2. Psychotropic Substances
any chemical that alters the mind is referred to as a “psychotropic substance.” Any substance that is listed as a psychotropic substance in the Schedule of the NDPS Act, whether it be natural or synthetic, or any of its natural derivatives, is referred to as a “psychotropic substance” in Section 2(xxiii). For instance, ketamine, alprazolam, diazepam, methaqualone, and amphetamine.
Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act
To combat drug misuse and outlaw its use, distribution, manufacturing, and trade, the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (NDPS Act) was enacted in 1985. Narcotic medicines cause drowsiness, whereas psychotropic substances affect the mind and alter it for the better. The NDPS Act was approved by the Indian Parliament on November 14th, 1985. In the practice of medicine, several substances have a position. As a result, the Act contains provisions for the growth of cannabis, poppies, and coca plants as well as the production of psychoactive compounds related to their growth.
Its main goal is to control the production, acquisition, distribution, and transportation of pharmaceuticals that are regarded as narcotics or psychotropics. This law makes it illegal to sell 200 psychoactive medications to walk-in clients. These medications can only be purchased with prescriptions. Since the law’s creation, numerous changes have been made to it. Furthermore, the NDPS does not distinguish between hard-core criminals engaged in this activity and drug consumers and traffickers. Without the approval of the relevant authorities, it is illegal for anybody to manufacture, produce, cultivate, possess, sell, buy, transport, store, or consume any drug or substance that is regarded as a narcotic or psychotropic. Thus, the purpose of this article is to draw attention to the NDPS Act’s requirements.
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