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On Friday, the Indian Embassy in Austria announced that India has been selected to chair the 68th session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND). Ambassador Shambhu S Kumaran, India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Vienna, officially assumed the role of Chairman for this prestigious UN forum.
About the Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND)
The CND is the principal policy-making body of the United Nations on drug-related matters. It is responsible for monitoring global drug trends, supporting Member States in formulating balanced drug policies, and overseeing the implementation of major international drug conventions. The CND operates under the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and serves as a governing body of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), which is headquartered in Vienna.
India’s Leadership Role
This marks the first time that India has been named to chair this important UN body. The appointment underscores India’s growing leadership role on the global stage and its commitment to addressing international issues through multilateral mechanisms. As the chair, India will be expected to represent the interests of the Global South and promote the perspectives of developing nations in global discussions.
India’s Focus as Chair
India aims to build on the ongoing work of the CND by fostering dialogue and understanding on drug policy issues. One of India’s key priorities will be to integrate the concerns of emerging economies with the priorities of developed nations, thereby promoting holistic and balanced approaches to global drug policy.
CND Agenda for the Coming Year
The CND’s agenda for the upcoming year will focus on strengthening international collaboration to address critical issues such as illicit drug trafficking, substance abuse, and their social and health impacts. Additionally, the CND will work on ensuring the availability of internationally controlled substances for medical and scientific purposes. India will continue to partner with other member states to advance equitable, inclusive, and sustainable strategies on these issues.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- Who has been appointed to chair the 68th session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND)?
a) Shambhu S Kumaran
b) Nirmala Sitharaman
c) Narendra Modi
d) S. Jaishankar
Answer: a) Shambhu S Kumaran - What is the primary responsibility of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND)?
a) To monitor global drug trends and support Member States in drug policy formulation
b) To monitor climate change impacts
c) To promote economic growth in developing nations
d) To regulate international trade
Answer: a) To monitor global drug trends and support Member States in drug policy formulation - Which UN body is the CND a part of?
a) United Nations General Assembly
b) United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)
c) United Nations Security Council
d) United Nations Human Rights Council
Answer: b) United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) - What will be India’s key focus as Chair of the CND?
a) Promoting climate change policies
b) Addressing global drug policy issues, especially for developing nations
c) Fostering international trade agreements
d) Promoting technological advancements
Answer: b) Addressing global drug policy issues, especially for developing nations - What critical issues will the CND’s agenda focus on in the coming year?
a) Space exploration
b) Illicit drug trafficking and substance abuse
c) Promoting tourism
d) Financial stability of nations
Answer: b) Illicit drug trafficking and substance abuse