Anti-drug campaign completes 300 days in Panchkula district

The Panchkula Police’s flagship initiative “Nasha aur Hinsa Mukt – Mera Gaon Meri Shaan” has completed 300 days, marking a major milestone in the district’s mission towards a drug-and violence-free society.

Under the guidance of Police Commissioner Sibash Kabiraj and the leadership of DCP Srishti Gupta, the campaign reached deep into the rural and urban areas, focusing on prevention, rehabilitation, and youth engagement.

Speaking at a special outreach programme organised at the Government Senior Secondary School, Bhareli village, Barwala, DCP Gupta said since the campaign began in December 2024, three special police teams visited 305 locations, interacted with 25,020 people, identified 2,668 drug-affected individuals, and facilitated counselling and medical assistance for 2,464 of them.

Additionally, 117 severely affected persons were admitted to rehabilitation centres with the support of the Health Department, the DCP said.

Addressing students, DCP Gupta urged them to act as “strong ambassadors” of a drug-free society by spreading awareness within their homes and communities. “Addiction is bad, not the person. We must approach victims with empathy and help them rebuild their lives through treatment and support,” she said.

Emphasising on digital safety, the DCP cautioned students against sharing personal information online. “Making your social media account public is like displaying your private life in a village square,” she warned, urging students to stay mindful of online risks in the age of artificial intelligence. She also encouraged them to read books, engage in sports, and focus on their health and future.

Motivating students of Classes 9 to 12, DCP Gupta advised them to dedicate their time to self-improvement. “The effort you put in today will make you strong enough to support others tomorrow,” she said.

During the event, ASI Shivani conducted a self-defence demonstration for girl students and advised them to call 112 in emergencies. DCP Gupta announced that the police would now organise weekly self-defence training sessions in different schools across the district.

In a gesture aimed at fostering trust between students and the police, chocolates were distributed among students. DCP Gupta interacted informally with students and discussed success, challenges, and life goals.

Dr Anu, clinical psychologist, school principal Inder Singh Ranga, and social worker Sukhwinder, also addressed students on the ill effects of substance abuse and informed them about helplines —MANAS (1933), Drug Info (7087081100/7087081048), and Tele MANAS (14416).

The programme concluded with a tree plantation drive led by DCP Gupta, who called upon students to plant and nurture at least one tree, linking environmental care with civic responsibility.

Principal Ranga expressed gratitude to the police team, while stating that such interactions inspired positive change among the youth.