Legal status in India

Per-substance legal status for India, from sourced statutes where available. Legal information, not legal advice — drug laws change; confirm with the destination’s embassy or drug authority before you travel.

Last updated: 2026-07-14

1P-LSD

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

2-FDCK

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

25I-NBOMe

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

2C-B

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

2C-E

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

2C-I

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

2C-T-7

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

3-MMC

Legal status: 3-MMC (3-methylmethcathinone) is controlled — added by name as a psychotropic substance under the NDPS Act on 8 Feb 2024, after India emerged as a major 3-MMC manufacturing/export source (enforcement busts in Telangana). This dedicated 2024 listing, not any earlier measure, brought it under control.
Consequences if caught: NDPS offences: possession and commercial-quantity trafficking carry severe imprisonment and fines. Not death-eligible for this substance in ordinary cases, though NDPS s.31A permits capital sentencing for certain repeat commercial-quantity trafficking.
If prescribed / medical: No recognised medical use and no lawful prescription route.
Documentation: No lawful personal-import route for an NDPS psychotropic.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

4-AcO-DMT

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

4-HO-MET

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

5-MeO-DMT (Bufo / Toad)

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

6-APB

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH)

Legal status: Neither 7-hydroxymitragynine nor kratom is a scheduled narcotic under the NDPS Act 1985: 7-OH, a kratom alkaloid, is not distinguished from whole-leaf kratom and is absent from the NDPS schedules, so it shares the plant's unregulated federal status.
Consequences if caught: No NDPS penalty attaches to the alkaloid at the federal level; kratom is not scheduled.
If prescribed / medical: No NDPS-scheduled kratom or alkaloid medicine exists; there is no controlled prescription tier for it federally.
Documentation: No NDPS import controls apply; kratom and its alkaloids are federally unscheduled (India exports kratom).

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

Adderall

Legal status: Adderall (mixed amphetamine salts) has no separate legal identity — it is regulated AS amphetamine: psychotropic substance in the NDPS schedule under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (also Schedule X, Drugs & Cosmetics Rules).
Consequences if caught: NDPS penalties are quantity-based: small quantity up to ~1 year and/or fine; commercial quantity 10–20 years rigorous imprisonment.
If prescribed / medical: Carry the original prescription + a doctor's letter and only a reasonable personal supply; Adderall is not marketed in India.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

Alcohol

Legal status: Legal but state-regulated — alcohol (ethanol) is a State-List subject; most states license sale with a minimum age of 18-25, while dry states (Gujarat, Bihar, Nagaland, Mizoram, Lakshadweep) prohibit it outright.
Consequences if caught: No penalty for adult drinking in 'wet' states; in prohibition states (notably Bihar and Gujarat) possession or consumption of alcohol brings arrest, fines and imprisonment.
If prescribed / medical: n/a — a beverage, not a medicine.
Documentation: Bought at state-licensed liquor shops on proof of age where legal; dry states require a health/tourist liquor permit or bar it entirely.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Amanita muscaria

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Amphetamine

Legal status: Psychotropic substance in the NDPS schedule under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (also Schedule X, Drugs & Cosmetics Rules).
Consequences if caught: NDPS penalties are quantity-based: small quantity up to ~1 year and/or fine; commercial quantity 10–20 years rigorous imprisonment.
If prescribed / medical: Carry the original prescription + a doctor's letter and only a reasonable personal supply; Adderall is not marketed in India.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

Amyl Nitrite

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Ayahuasca

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Barbiturates

Legal status: Barbiturates are psychotropic substances under the NDPS Act 1985 and prescription drugs under the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules — a class scheduled by compound transposing the 1971 Convention (secobarbital/pentobarbital/amobarbital higher, phenobarbital/barbital lower).
Consequences if caught: Below the notified small quantity: up to 1 year (s.22); intermediate up to 10 years; commercial quantity 10–20 years rigorous imprisonment plus fine.
If prescribed / medical: Phenobarbital is a first-line, widely prescribed Schedule H antiepileptic (a WHO Essential Medicine); the sedative-hypnotic barbiturates are far more restricted.
Documentation: Carry a personal therapeutic amount with a prescription; above the notified small quantity triggers NDPS trafficking liability.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Benzodiazepines

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

Buprenorphine

Legal status: Buprenorphine is a psychotropic scheduled under the NDPS Act 1985 — a lighter control tier than methadone (an Essential Narcotic Drug), with no storage licence required; higher strengths (0.4/2 mg) are restricted to government-recognised de-addiction centres.
Consequences if caught: Below the notified small quantity: up to 1 year (s.22); intermediate up to 10 years; commercial quantity 10–20 years rigorous imprisonment plus fine.
If prescribed / medical: The dominant opioid-substitution medicine under the National AIDS Control Programme, dispensed at recognised de-addiction centres (not open take-home).
Documentation: Carry a personal therapeutic amount with a prescription and INCB certificate; confirm with the CBN/NCB.

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

Caffeine

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Cannabis / THC

Legal status: Charas (hashish) and ganja are NDPS 'cannabis' — illegal; BHANG (leaves/seeds) is OUTSIDE the NDPS definition and is legal / state-regulated in many states
Consequences if caught: Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37). Under the NDPS Act, 'cannabis' covers CHARAS/hashish (small 100 g, commercial 1 kg) and GANJA (small 1 kg, commercial 20 kg). Crucially, BHANG — the leaves and seeds of the plant — falls OUTSIDE the NDPS definition of 'cannabis' and is legal and state-regulated in many Indian states, while ganja and charas remain NDPS-controlled. Possession of a small quantity proven to be for personal consumption (Sec 27) carries up to 6 months (up to 1 year for some substances) plus a fine; Sec 64A grants immunity to addicts who volunteer for treatment.
If prescribed / medical: Not a prescribed traveller medicine; charas/ganja are NDPS-controlled.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

Cathinone

Legal status: Controlled — cathinone (khat's natural principal alkaloid) is a 1971 Convention SCHEDULE I psychotropic and is a scheduled psychotropic substance under the NDPS Act 1985. Mechanism: 1971 Sch-I transposition, named. As the parent compound it is DISTINCT from the khat PLANT (Catha edulis dry leaves, separately scheduled since Feb 2018) and from the synthetic cathinones (mephedrone, individually notified onto the NDPS schedule in 2015) that derive from it; cathinone is the named psychotropic alkaloid, cathine the milder metabolite (1971 Schedule III).
Consequences if caught: NDPS psychotropic: penalties for the alkaloid set by small-/commercial-quantity thresholds. India imposes no death penalty for a first drug offence, and cathinone falls below any capital-repeat tier.
If prescribed / medical: 1971 Schedule I substance with no accepted medical use and no lawful prescription route for the isolated alkaloid.
Documentation: No licit personal-carry or import route for an NDPS psychotropic.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

CBD

Legal status: CBD (cannabidiol) legality turns on plant part, not a THC percentage: the NDPS Act 1985 (s 2(iii)) defines 'cannabis (hemp)' as charas, ganja and mixtures but expressly excludes seeds and leaves, so leaf-derived CBD sold under an Ayurvedic/AYUSH licence falls outside the NDPS 'cannabis' definition, while flowering-top or resin-derived CBD is controlled.
Consequences if caught: CBD from buds/flowering tops/resin is NDPS cannabis (small quantity up to about 1 year; commercial 10-20 years under s 20), whereas leaf-derived, Ayurvedically-licensed CBD carries no such liability.
If prescribed / medical: There is no dedicated Epidyolex/prescription scheme; medical access is via Ayurvedic/AYUSH leaf-based formulations. Distinct from charas/ganja, while bhang (leaves) sits outside the NDPS definition.
Documentation: Carry evidence that CBD is leaf-derived under an Ayurvedic/AYUSH licence; flowering-top or resin-derived CBD is NDPS cannabis that paperwork cannot legalise.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Clonazepam

Legal status: Clonazepam is both a Schedule H1 prescription drug and a psychotropic scheduled under the NDPS Act 1985, with a notified small quantity of 5 g and commercial quantity of 100 g.
Consequences if caught: Below the small quantity: up to 1 year (s.22); intermediate up to 10 years; commercial quantity 10–20 years rigorous imprisonment plus fine.
If prescribed / medical: Prescribed as a Schedule H1 benzodiazepine medicine (also NDPS-scheduled).
Documentation: Carry a personal therapeutic amount with a prescription; above the notified small quantity triggers NDPS trafficking liability.

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

Cocaine

Legal status: Controlled narcotic/psychotropic under the NDPS Act 1985 — illegal; quantity-graded penalties
Consequences if caught: Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37). For cocaine the thresholds are: small 2 g, commercial 100 g. Possession of a small quantity proven to be for personal consumption (Sec 27) carries up to 6 months (up to 1 year for some substances) plus a fine; Sec 64A grants immunity to addicts who volunteer for treatment.
If prescribed / medical: Not a traveller medicine in this form.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

Codeine

Legal status: Codeine is prescription-only: codeine cough syrups are Schedule H1 and, after a 2023 rule change, were removed from the Schedule K OTC exemptions (prescription mandatory); many codeine fixed-dose combinations (Phensedyl, Corex) have been restricted or banned since the 2016 344-FDC notification. Codeine is an NDPS-scheduled narcotic.
Consequences if caught: Illicit possession or supply carries severe penalties under the NDPS Act (graduated by quantity); prescribed use is lawful.
If prescribed / medical: Prescribed as a Schedule H1 medicine; codeine syrups are heavily restricted and policed.
Documentation: Partial trap - carry a prescription and original packaging; codeine syrups are heavily policed.

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

Crack Cocaine

Legal status: Crack is the freebase (base) form of cocaine and has no separate legal identity in India: it is controlled AS cocaine under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act 1985 (NDPS), whose 'cocaine' definition covers the alkaloid, its salts, preparations and all forms, thereby reaching the base/freebase form. Crack is a controlled narcotic on the same terms as cocaine, with quantity-graded penalties.
Consequences if caught: Possession, sale and trafficking of crack (as cocaine) are criminal under the NDPS Act (Secs 15-27), with penalties graded by small/commercial quantity and stringent bail limits (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: Cocaine has only narrow controlled medical use; the crack/freebase base has no medicinal preparation and cannot be prescribed.
Documentation: No prescription documentation exists for crack/freebase cocaine.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Delta-8-THC

Legal status: Controlled — delta-8-THC (Δ8-THC) is caught as a tetrahydrocannabinol under the NDPS Act 1985 and its psychotropic/manufactured-drug lists, which schedule tetrahydrocannabinols; delta-8 is controlled as an isomer of THC. Distinct from the NDPS 'cannabis' definition, which is plant-form (charas/ganja) and excludes bhang — an isolated tetrahydrocannabinol is not bhang. No death penalty for a first offence.
Consequences if caught: Illegal; NDPS possession/trafficking penalties are quantity-tiered (small quantity to commercial quantity), with rigorous imprisonment for commercial quantities.
If prescribed / medical: No recognised medical use; delta-8-THC is not a prescribable medicine.
Documentation: No lawful personal import of a controlled tetrahydrocannabinol.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Diazepam

Legal status: Diazepam is both a Schedule H1 prescription drug and a psychotropic scheduled under the NDPS Act 1985, with a notified small quantity of 20 g and commercial quantity of 500 g.
Consequences if caught: Below the small quantity: up to 1 year (s.22); intermediate up to 10 years; commercial quantity 10–20 years rigorous imprisonment plus fine.
If prescribed / medical: Prescribed as a Schedule H1 benzodiazepine medicine (also NDPS-scheduled).
Documentation: Carry a personal therapeutic amount with a prescription; above the notified small quantity triggers NDPS trafficking liability.

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

DMT

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

DOM

Legal status: DOM (STP) is a psychotropic substance under the NDPS Act 1985 (Schedule item, '2-amino-1-(2,5-dimethoxy-4-methyl)phenylpropane', STP/DOM), India's transposition of DOM's individual Schedule I listing under the 1971 UN Convention.
Consequences if caught: Possession and trafficking are offences under the NDPS Act with quantity-graded penalties, rising to 10-20 years for commercial quantities.
If prescribed / medical: Scheduled psychotropic with no therapeutic use in India; not prescribable.
Documentation: Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act 1985, Schedule of psychotropic substances (STP/DOM entry).

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

DXM

Legal status: Non-prescription cough-syrup ingredient with combination-product restrictions. Dextromethorphan (DXM) remains an approved antitussive sold in Indian cough syrups (the government has publicly denied any outright DXM ban), but the CDSCO has acted against several unapproved DXM-containing fixed-dose combinations (FDC crackdowns 2023-2025) and issued paediatric-safety advisories curtailing DXM cough syrups in young children.
Consequences if caught: DXM is not a narcotic under the NDPS Act; manufacture or sale of unapproved DXM fixed-dose combinations is a Drugs and Cosmetics Act offence subject to CDSCO enforcement.
If prescribed / medical: Cough-suppressant status: available as an approved, largely over-the-counter cough-syrup ingredient; specific unapproved DXM FDCs are restricted/banned and paediatric use is curtailed.
Documentation: DXM cough syrup is widely sold in Indian pharmacies; some combination products have been withdrawn and use in young children is advised against.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Ephedrine

Legal status: Regulated as a chemical PRECURSOR (1988 UN Convention Table I — a methamphetamine precursor), NOT as a scheduled narcotic; a 'controlled substance' under the NDPS Act 1985 s.2(viid) + the NDPS (Regulation of Controlled Substances) Order 2013 — licensing/record-keeping for manufacture/sale/import/export. Also a prescription drug. Not itself a narcotic/psychotropic schedule entry.
Consequences if caught: Contravention of the Controlled Substances Order (unlicensed dealing/diversion) is punishable under NDPS s.25A (up to 10 years + fine) — distinct from narcotic-drug trafficking offences.
If prescribed / medical: Also a pharmacy/prescription decongestant-bronchodilator medicine subject to sales limits; carry documentation for a personal supply.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

Etizolam

Legal status: Etizolam is a LICENSED prescription medicine in India — a Schedule H drug (Drugs & Cosmetics Rules) widely marketed as Etizest, Etilaam and Etizola. It is NOT under the NDPS Act; it is controlled only as an ordinary prescription drug (its export was banned in April 2021).
Consequences if caught: Only a prescription-medicine offence applies (Schedule H) — etizolam is not a narcotic under the NDPS Act.
If prescribed / medical: Fully licensed and widely prescribed as an ordinary Schedule H medicine.
Documentation: As a licensed Schedule H medicine, carry it in original packaging with your prescription; note export from India is prohibited.

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

Fentanyl

Legal status: Controlled narcotic/psychotropic under the NDPS Act 1985 — illegal; quantity-graded penalties
Consequences if caught: Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37). Fentanyl is a controlled narcotic under the NDPS Act; the cited 2001 notification did not state its specific small/commercial figures — verify with the CBN/NCB. Possession of a small quantity proven to be for personal consumption (Sec 27) carries up to 6 months (up to 1 year for some substances) plus a fine; Sec 64A grants immunity to addicts who volunteer for treatment.
If prescribed / medical: Fentanyl is an Essential Narcotic Drug (medically regulated); carry the prescription with original packaging, a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs (see documentation).
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

Gabapentin

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

GBL

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

GHB

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

Heroin

Legal status: Controlled narcotic/psychotropic under the NDPS Act 1985 — illegal; quantity-graded penalties
Consequences if caught: Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37). For heroin the thresholds are: small 5 g, commercial 250 g. Possession of a small quantity proven to be for personal consumption (Sec 27) carries up to 6 months (up to 1 year for some substances) plus a fine; Sec 64A grants immunity to addicts who volunteer for treatment.
If prescribed / medical: Not a traveller medicine; a prohibited narcotic.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

HHC

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Hydrocodone

Legal status: Hydrocodone is named as an Essential Narcotic Drug under the NDPS Act 1985 (dispensed via Recognised Medical Institutions on a state-controlled/triplicate narcotics prescription) — scheduled alongside morphine and oxycodone.
Consequences if caught: Small quantity up to 6 months–1 year; commercial quantity 10–20 years rigorous imprisonment plus fine.
If prescribed / medical: Dispensed only through Recognised Medical Institutions on a state-controlled narcotics prescription.
Documentation: Carry a prescription plus a doctor's letter in original packaging; personal import of narcotics is tightly limited — confirm ahead.

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

Ketamine

Legal status: Controlled narcotic/psychotropic under the NDPS Act 1985 — illegal; quantity-graded penalties
Consequences if caught: Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37). Ketamine is scheduled under the NDPS Act; specific small/commercial figures are not stated in the cited notification — verify with the CBN/NCB. Possession of a small quantity proven to be for personal consumption (Sec 27) carries up to 6 months (up to 1 year for some substances) plus a fine; Sec 64A grants immunity to addicts who volunteer for treatment.
If prescribed / medical: Not a traveller medicine in this form.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

Khat

Legal status: Controlled — PLANT NAMED. Catha edulis (khat dry leaves) was added to the list of psychotropic substances under the NDPS Act 1985 by Notification S.O. 821(E) dated 27 February 2018 — the plant itself is scheduled. Mechanism: NAMED (plant), effective 27 Feb 2018.
Consequences if caught: Khat leaf is a scheduled psychotropic; import and possession are prosecuted under the NDPS Act (major seizures ongoing).
If prescribed / medical: Khat is traditional plant material with no recognised medical use and no lawful prescription route.
Documentation: No lawful personal-import route since Feb 2018; leaf is prohibited and seized on import.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Kratom

Legal status: Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is not a scheduled narcotic in India — it is not listed under the NDPS Act 1985, and neither mitragynine nor 7-hydroxymitragynine appears in the NDPS schedules; the plant is unregulated at the federal level (India is a producer and exporter), with no confirmable state-level scheduling.
Consequences if caught: No NDPS penalty at the federal level, as kratom is not scheduled; ordinary commercial and export rules apply.
If prescribed / medical: Not a scheduled medicine under the NDPS Act — no controlled prescription requirement.
Documentation: No federal kratom-specific carry restriction; a reasonable personal quantity is not an NDPS matter.

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

Lorazepam

Legal status: Lorazepam is both a Schedule H1 prescription drug and a psychotropic scheduled under the NDPS Act 1985, with a notified small quantity of 10 g and commercial quantity of 250 g.
Consequences if caught: Below the small quantity: up to 1 year (s.22); intermediate up to 10 years; commercial quantity 10–20 years rigorous imprisonment plus fine.
If prescribed / medical: Prescribed as a Schedule H1 benzodiazepine medicine (also NDPS-scheduled).
Documentation: Carry a personal therapeutic amount with a prescription; above the notified small quantity triggers NDPS trafficking liability.

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

LSA (Morning Glory)

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

LSD

Legal status: Controlled narcotic/psychotropic under the NDPS Act 1985 — illegal; quantity-graded penalties
Consequences if caught: Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37). For LSD the commercial quantity is 0.1 g (the small-quantity figure is not stated in the cited 2001 notification). Possession of a small quantity proven to be for personal consumption (Sec 27) carries up to 6 months (up to 1 year for some substances) plus a fine; Sec 64A grants immunity to addicts who volunteer for treatment.
If prescribed / medical: Not a traveller medicine in this form.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

MDA

Legal status: Controlled — MDA is a scheduled psychotropic substance under the NDPS Act (listed with MDMA). NAMED mechanism. India's rare capital drug provision is repeat/opioid-focused and does not reach MDA.
Consequences if caught: NDPS Act: commercial-quantity trafficking carries rigorous imprisonment (10-20 years) and fine; not death-eligible for MDA.
If prescribed / medical: Scheduled psychotropic with no recognised medical use; no lawful prescription route.
Documentation: No lawful personal import of an NDPS psychotropic.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

MDMA

Legal status: Controlled narcotic/psychotropic under the NDPS Act 1985 — illegal; quantity-graded penalties
Consequences if caught: Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37). MDMA is a named NDPS substance; the cited 2001 notification did not state its specific small/commercial figures — verify the exact thresholds with the CBN/NCB. Possession of a small quantity proven to be for personal consumption (Sec 27) carries up to 6 months (up to 1 year for some substances) plus a fine; Sec 64A grants immunity to addicts who volunteer for treatment.
If prescribed / medical: Not a traveller medicine in this form.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

MDPV

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Memantine

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Mephedrone (4-MMC)

Legal status: Controlled — NAMED. Mephedrone is individually notified onto the NDPS Act schedule of psychotropic substances in Feb 2015 (India being a major clandestine-production concern).
Consequences if caught: NDPS psychotropic: penalties set by small-/commercial-quantity thresholds. India imposes no death penalty for a first drug offence, and mephedrone falls below any capital-repeat tier.
If prescribed / medical: NDPS psychotropic with no recognised medical use and no lawful prescription route.
Documentation: No licit personal-carry or import route for an NDPS psychotropic.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Mescaline

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

Methadone

Legal status: Methadone is a narcotic under the NDPS Act 1985, reclassified an 'Essential Narcotic Drug' by the 2014 amendment (easing transport/storage) — full narcotic control.
Consequences if caught: Small quantity up to 6 months–1 year; commercial quantity 10–20 years rigorous imprisonment plus fine.
If prescribed / medical: Prescribed for OST at government-recognised centres (pilot MMT at a few sites; buprenorphine is the dominant OST medicine under the national programme).
Documentation: Carry an INCB certificate plus prescription and doctor's letter in original packaging; confirm with the CBN/NCB.

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

Methamphetamine

Legal status: Controlled narcotic/psychotropic under the NDPS Act 1985 — illegal; quantity-graded penalties
Consequences if caught: Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37). For methamphetamine the commercial quantity is 50 g (the small-quantity figure is not stated in the cited 2001 notification). Possession of a small quantity proven to be for personal consumption (Sec 27) carries up to 6 months (up to 1 year for some substances) plus a fine; Sec 64A grants immunity to addicts who volunteer for treatment.
If prescribed / medical: Not a traveller medicine in this form.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

Methaqualone (Quaaludes)

Legal status: Methaqualone (Mandrax) is a psychotropic substance listed in the Schedule to the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act 1985 — the named transposition of its 1971 Convention Schedule II status; its manufacture is banned, and India is a historic source of illicit 'Mandrax' trafficked to southern and eastern Africa.
Consequences if caught: Quantity-graded penalties under the NDPS Act — small quantities draw shorter terms, while commercial quantities carry 10-20 years and heavy fines.
If prescribed / medical: No recognised medical use / withdrawn — methaqualone is not a licensed medicine in India.
Documentation: No medical or traveller route; there is no lawful prescription or import pathway.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Methylone

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Methylphenidate

Legal status: Psychotropic substance under the NDPS Act 1985 (also Schedule X, Drugs & Cosmetics Rules).
Consequences if caught: NDPS penalties are quantity-based: small quantity up to ~1 year; commercial quantity 10–20 years.
If prescribed / medical: Prescription ADHD/narcolepsy medicine (e.g. Ritalin/Concerta) via controlled channels; carry the original prescription and any required import permit.

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

Mitragynine

Legal status: Neither mitragynine nor kratom is a scheduled narcotic under the NDPS Act 1985: mitragynine, the principal alkaloid of kratom, has no separate legal identity — neither the plant nor the alkaloids appear in the NDPS schedules, so they are effectively unregulated together at the federal level (India is a kratom producer/exporter).
Consequences if caught: No NDPS penalty attaches to the alkaloid at the federal level; kratom is not scheduled.
If prescribed / medical: No NDPS-scheduled kratom or alkaloid medicine exists; there is no controlled prescription tier for it federally.
Documentation: No NDPS import controls apply; kratom and its alkaloids are federally unscheduled (India exports kratom).

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

Modafinil

Legal status: SCHEDULE H prescription drug under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act — NOT under the NDPS Act (not a narcotic/psychotropic).
Consequences if caught: Prescription-medicine offence only (Schedule H sale-without-prescription); not an NDPS offence.
If prescribed / medical: Carry the prescription for a personal supply.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

Morphine

Legal status: Morphine is explicitly an Essential Narcotic Drug scheduled under the NDPS Act 1985 — dispensed only through Recognised Medical Institutions on a state-controlled prescription.
Consequences if caught: Small quantity up to 6 months to 1 year; commercial quantity 10 to 20 years rigorous imprisonment plus a fine.
If prescribed / medical: Prescribed as an Essential Narcotic Drug for severe and cancer pain via Recognised Medical Institutions.
Documentation: Carry a prescription and doctor's letter in original packaging; personal import of narcotics is tightly limited — confirm ahead.

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

MXE

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Nicotine

Legal status: Nicotine remains legal in India in tobacco products and in nicotine-replacement therapy, but the nicotine DELIVERY product is banned nationwide by the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes (Production, Manufacture, Import, Export, Transport, Sale, Distribution, Storage and Advertisement) Act, 2019 (Act 41 of 2019). The Act covers all electronic nicotine delivery systems, heat-not-burn products and e-hookahs, with no personal-use exception.
Consequences if caught: First-time production, import, sale, transport or advertisement is punishable by up to one year imprisonment or a fine up to Rs 1,00,000 (or both); repeat offences up to three years and Rs 5,00,000. Mere storage is punishable by up to six months or Rs 50,000.
If prescribed / medical: Nicotine-replacement therapy is available as a regulated medicine; e-cigarettes have no lawful medical or prescription route.
Documentation: No licence or permit is issued for e-cigarettes; they are prohibited articles subject to seizure.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Nitrous Oxide

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Oxycodone

Legal status: Oxycodone is explicitly named as an Essential Narcotic Drug scheduled under the NDPS Act 1985, dispensed only through Recognised Medical Institutions on a state-controlled prescription — a marketed strong opioid.
Consequences if caught: Small quantity up to 6 months–1 year; commercial quantity 10–20 years rigorous imprisonment plus fine.
If prescribed / medical: Prescribed as an Essential Narcotic Drug via Recognised Medical Institutions.
Documentation: Carry a prescription and doctor's letter with original packaging; personal-use narcotic import is tightly limited — confirm ahead.

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

PCP

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

Peyote

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

Phenibut

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Pink Cocaine / Tusi

Legal status: Pink cocaine (tusi) is not scheduled as such; it is a variable mixture (typically ketamine + MDMA) prosecuted through its constituents — both MDMA and ketamine are controlled narcotic/psychotropic substances under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act 1985 (NDPS), which reaches any preparation or mixture containing a controlled substance. Because the blend varies batch to batch, exposure follows the most-severely-controlled detected component.
Consequences if caught: Illegal with quantity-graded penalties under the NDPS Act (Secs 15–27), and the tough bail bar of Sec 37 for commercial quantities, charged on whichever constituent is detected.
If prescribed / medical: No lawful supply of the mixture; ketamine is a controlled medicine used as an anaesthetic under strict NDPS/veterinary control, while MDMA has no marketed medical use.
Documentation: Sold as an unregulated party powder; because the makeup varies batch to batch, purchasers cannot know its constituents, so legal exposure under the NDPS Act is unknowable at purchase.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Poppers

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Pregabalin

Legal status: Pregabalin was moved into Schedule H1 of the Drugs Rules, 1945 by MoHFW gazette notification on 20 May 2026 — a stricter record-kept prescription tier than gabapentin — after states such as Punjab and Telangana flagged widespread abuse; it is NOT (yet) scheduled under the NDPS Act, so it is a controlled prescription medicine rather than a narcotic.
Consequences if caught: Selling Schedule H1 pregabalin without a valid prescription is a Drugs and Cosmetics Act offence; because it is not NDPS-scheduled, the NDPS quantity-based prison tiers do not apply.
If prescribed / medical: Dispensed only against a written prescription from a registered medical practitioner, with each sale logged in a dedicated pharmacy register (Schedule H1).
Documentation: Carry a valid prescription or doctor's letter and original packaging with a personal-use quantity, and declare it on entry.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Psilocybin

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

Quetiapine

Legal status: Quetiapine is a prescription-only (Schedule H) medicine, not a controlled drug: Seroquel and quetiapine products are approved by the CDSCO under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act and quetiapine is not listed under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.
Consequences if caught: Quetiapine attracts no NDPS penalty; a chemist selling this Schedule H drug without a valid prescription commits a Drugs and Cosmetics Act offence, not a narcotics offence.
If prescribed / medical: Prescribed as an atypical antipsychotic for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder; Schedule H requires a registered practitioner's prescription for dispensing.
Documentation: Quetiapine is a CDSCO-approved new drug dispensed as a Schedule H prescription medicine; carried lawfully with a prescription.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Salvia divinorum

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

Scopolamine (Devil's Breath)

Legal status: Scopolamine (hyoscine) is a prescription/pharmacy medicine, not a narcotic: hyoscine butylbromide (Buscopan) and hyoscine hydrobromide are CDSCO-approved and dispensed as Schedule H prescription drugs under the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules 1945; scopolamine is not listed under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act.
Consequences if caught: Hyoscine carries no NDPS penalty; unauthorised sale of a Schedule H medicine without prescription is a Drugs and Cosmetics Act matter, not a narcotics-trafficking offence.
If prescribed / medical: Hyoscine butylbromide (Buscopan) is dispensed for spasm; hyoscine hydrobromide is used in premedication and clinically.
Documentation: Hyoscine/butylbromide products are CDSCO-approved Schedule H medicines; carried lawfully.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Synthetic Cannabinoids (K2 / Spice)

Legal status: Controlled by named listing. India has no general analogue/generic clause, so synthetic cannabinoids are controlled as they are individually notified into the NDPS list of psychotropic substances (following the compounds added to Schedule II of the 1971 Convention); un-notified new analogues can fall outside control until listed. Distinct from cannabis, which is NDPS 'cannabis' except for bhang.
Consequences if caught: Illegal for the listed synthetic cannabinoids; possession and trafficking carry NDPS imprisonment penalties (quantity-tiered). Death penalty only for repeat large-quantity trafficking, not applied to this class in practice.
If prescribed / medical: These synthetic cannabinoids have no recognised medical use and no lawful prescription route in India.
Documentation: No lawful personal-import route for NDPS-listed synthetic cannabinoids; do not carry.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

THC-P

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Tobacco

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Tramadol

Legal status: Tramadol is a notified psychotropic scheduled under the NDPS Act 1985 (S.O. 1761(E) dated 26 April 2018, item 110-Y) and is no longer sold over the counter — a prescription is required.
Consequences if caught: NDPS penalties apply by quantity: up to 1 year below the small quantity, up to 10 years for intermediate amounts, and 10–20 years rigorous imprisonment plus fine for commercial quantities.
If prescribed / medical: Prescribed as an NDPS-scheduled psychotropic medicine.
Documentation: Carry a valid prescription or doctor's letter, original packaging and a personal-use quantity, and declare it — undocumented possession carries severe NDPS liability.

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

Xanax (Alprazolam)

Legal status: Alprazolam is both a Schedule H1 prescription drug and a psychotropic scheduled under the NDPS Act 1985, with a notified small quantity of 5 g and commercial quantity of 100 g.
Consequences if caught: Below the small quantity: up to 1 year (s.22); intermediate up to 10 years; commercial quantity 10–20 years rigorous imprisonment plus fine.
If prescribed / medical: Prescribed as a Schedule H1 benzodiazepine medicine (also NDPS-scheduled).
Documentation: Carry a personal therapeutic amount with a prescription; above the notified small quantity triggers NDPS trafficking liability.

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

Xylazine

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) / Central Bureau of Narcotics / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the reachable Indian sources (NDPS Act 1985 / NDPS small-commercial quantity Notification 2001) — verify before travel. Penalties are graded by quantity (NDPS Secs 15–22): a SMALL quantity carries rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a fine up to ₹10,000; an INTERMEDIATE quantity (more than small, less than commercial) up to 10 years plus a fine up to ₹1 lakh; a COMMERCIAL quantity 10–20 years plus a fine of ₹1–2 lakh. All NDPS offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and commercial-quantity bail is near-impossible (Sec 37).
If prescribed / medical: If it is an Essential Narcotic Drug, carry the prescription with original packaging and declare at customs (see documentation); otherwise verify with the NCB/CBN.
Documentation: Essential Narcotic Drugs (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone) are medically regulated; a traveller should carry the prescription with original packaging, bring only a reasonable personal quantity, and declare at customs. Tramadol was added to the NDPS schedule in 2018 (commercial quantity 250 g) and is controlled.

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

Zolpidem

Legal status: Zolpidem is a Schedule H1 prescription drug under the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules (retained in Schedule H1 by DTAB) and is a listed psychotropic consistent with the 1971 Convention Schedule IV status of zolpidem; it may not be sold by retail without a registered practitioner's prescription.
Consequences if caught: Retail sale of this Schedule H1 hypnotic without a prescription is an offence, and illicit trafficking can attract NDPS Act penalties; supply must be entered in a separate H1 register.
If prescribed / medical: Zolpidem is prescribed short-term for insomnia as a Schedule H1 medicine, with mandatory recording of prescriber, patient and quantity.
Documentation: A traveller carries prescribed zolpidem with the prescription; H1 record-keeping applies to pharmacy supply.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Drug laws and enforcement change and vary by country. This is not legal advice. Always confirm with the destination’s embassy or official drug authority before traveling — penalties can be severe, including imprisonment.

Before you travel

Verify current rules with the destination country’s official drug authorityand your own country’s embassy before traveling. Find the destination’s U.S. embassy & official country guidance →
Non-U.S. travelers: check your own government’s travel advisory and embassy.

If you’re detained or arrested abroad

Contact your own country’s embassy or consulatein the destination immediately — notthe destination’s authorities. U.S. citizens: contact the nearest U.S. embassy/consulate and the U.S. State Department at +1-202-501-4444 (from abroad). If a U.S. citizen is arrested or detained abroad →

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