Terrorism, smuggling linked to drugs: Prez

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, June 26

President Pranab Mukherjee today said terrorism, smuggling and drug activities are inter-linked and a joint effort is needed to break the linkage.

He said this while presenting the National Awards for Outstanding Services in the fields of prevention of alcoholism and drug abuse on International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

He urged national awardees not to be complacent and asked them to continue their fight to eradicate the menace of illicit trafficking and drug abuse.

Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Thaawarchand Gehlot said he had launched a national toll-free helpline (1800-11-0031) to assist the alcoholics and drug-dependent persons, their family members and community.

Ministers of State for Social Justice Krishan Pal Gurjar and Vijay Sampla were also present at the function.