India: UNODC enhances digital resilience of law enforcement officials strengthen responses to virtual assets and cryptocurrencies 

Rajasthan, India/16 September 2023: In the digital landscape, law enforcement authorities are increasingly faced with the challenge of effectively responding to cryptocurrencies and other digital assets. The classification of digital assets, determination of their taxability, and tracking of transactions in this realm are complex tasks that require thorough understanding and adaptation of relevant laws. Additionally, issues related to cross-border transactions, potential tax evasion, and the need for international cooperation to ensure tax compliance further underscore the importance of addressing digital assets. The need for continuous knowledge building for authorities is therefore an imperative, aligned with the emerging realities of the digital era.

Recognizing this need, UNODC collaborated with the Zonal Training Institute (ZTI), National Academy of Customs, Indirect Taxes and Narcotics (NACIN), Jaipur, to conduct an intensive capacity enhancement training program for 45 officers from the Rajasthan Central State Tax Zone, Jaipur.

Conducted over four engaging sessions, the training was thoughtfully structured around four pillars--including a basic introduction to digital assets, issues regarding taxability of digital assets, darknet and illicit online market places, and demonstration of digital platforms.

The lectures were delivered by faculty member, Mr. Rohit Joshi and UNODC’s drug law enforcement expert Mr. Jayant Misra, who brought their specialized expertise to guide the officers through the complexities of cybercrime and digital asset management.

In the interactive discussions, participants exchanged insights and shared recommendations to strengthen law enforcement responses. Officers expressed a strong desire for additional hands-on and intensive training sessions, particularly in areas such as darknet market analysis, open-source intelligence, social media monitoring, and cryptocurrency interdiction. This reflected the officers' recognition of the need for practical, real-world experience to effectively combat cybercrime.

Participants also emphasized the importance of conducting regular training programs to keep officers up-to-date with the latest changes in laws and emerging trends in narcotics trafficking and cybercrime.

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, law enforcement agencies must remain vigilant and well-prepared, and initiatives like these play a crucial role in achieving that goal.

The activity contributed to SDG 16 and SDG 17: https://sdg-tracker.org/

(Supported by the Government of India)