Cannabis: The Government Accelerates Work for a Structured and Coordinated Reform
The government is stepping up its fight against drugs. A major milestone was reached on Thursday, April 23, 2026, with the first meeting of the National Drug Control Commission (NDCC), chaired by Prime Minister Dr. Navin Ramgoolam. The "National Drug Control Masterplan 2026-2030" was also approved on this occasion.
In addition to the head of government, this body includes eleven ministers whose portfolios are relevant to drug issues, including the Attorney General and the Chief Commissioner of Rodrigues. It serves as the central organ under which the National Agency for Drug Control (NADC) operates.
The primary goals of this first meeting were to establish contact with the new leadership team of the NADC and to assess the actions undertaken so far and outline the next steps.
During his speech, the Prime Minister was unequivocal: the fight against drugs is a national emergency, as clearly stated in the government program for 2025-2029. Given the scale of the issue and its social, economic, and health repercussions, which have worsened in recent years, he advocates for a modern approach based on concrete data and enhanced coordination among various institutions.
The Prime Minister also emphasized the need for a comprehensive response. The drug issue cannot be addressed solely through a repressive lens; it requires a multidimensional approach.
NADC CEO Kunal Naik presented the progress made by the "Technical Working Group" on the "National Cannabis Policy Reform." This technical group, tasked with exploring reform pathways regarding cannabis, has already made significant strides. A press conference will be held soon to present its directions and recommendations in detail.
Discussions also included the "National Stakeholders Consultations," aimed at involving all relevant players to ensure policies tailored to ground realities.
The exchanges were constructive, with ministers expressing their concerns, suggestions, and proposals to enhance the effectiveness of the national response.
At the end of the meeting, NADC chairperson Nadia Peerun reflected on the strong signal sent by the Prime Minister by validating the "National Drug Control Master Plan." This plan crystallizes the collaboration of all stakeholders involved in the fight against drugs, and it is now the responsibility of the NADC to implement it.
This first meeting of the NDCC demonstrates the government's clear commitment to making the fight against drugs a top priority through a structured, coordinated, and sustainable strategy, especially given the significant increase in this scourge over the past decade.
It is worth noting that the "National Drug Control Masterplan 2026-2030" will be available on government online platforms in the coming days.
