India faces a significant drug challenge, caught between major production hubs, with illicit substances entering via sea and drones. Domestic production also exists, exploiting legal loopholes. While India's response aims to innovate enforcement and improve regulatory certainty, and adopt a 'whole of society' approach, the author critically points out numerous deficiencies. These include inadequate and uneven access to de-addiction centers, particularly in rural areas, and prevalent stigma leading to abuse and relapse. The current system punishes small possessors harshly while neglecting rehabilitation and women's specific needs. India must shift focus from arrests to restoring lives.