India’s maritime counter-narcotics strategy has proven effective, marked by a decade of consistent enforcement that distinguishes it from Pakistan’s approach. The Indian Navy and Coast Guard utilize an integrated system of sensors and intelligence, enabling precise interceptions and successful prosecutions, with significant seizures like Operation Samudragupt in 2023 exemplifying this capability. Notably, India’s legal framework ensures high conviction rates, reinforcing its global standing in combating drug trafficking. As traffickers adapt, India’s focus is expanding to include dual-use cargo and arms smuggling, emphasizing the need for enhanced inter-agency cooperation. This evolving strategy not only bolsters regional security but underscores India’s commitment to credible enforcement over mere optics, establishing a model that other nations can emulate.