Joint, structured approach to combat drug menace, says DC
A key meeting to review and plan the implementation of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (Drug-Free India Campaign) was convened under the chairmanship of Sirmaur DC Priyanka Verma at the DC Office Conference Hall. Officials from the police, education, social justice and empowerment and health departments, along with members of various NGOs, participated in the meeting.
During the session, the Deputy Commissioner issued directives for drafting a comprehensive proposal under the district-level drug de-addiction campaign committee. She emphasised the need for effective coordination among the police, health and education departments to ensure the success of the campaign.
Verma stressed that the active participation of social organisations, alongside government departments, is vital for achieving the mission’s objectives. She also expressed concern over the rising trend of drug abuse in the district and across the state, underlining the need for a joint, structured approach to combat the issue.
District Welfare Officer Vivek Arora presented a detailed outline of the proposed action plan for the financial year 2025–26. He informed attendees that the committee’s plan will be submitted to the central government as part of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, requesting financial assistance based on the outlined strategies.
The Deputy Commissioner pointed out that parents play a crucial role in preventing drug addiction among youth. She appealed to parents to educate their children about the harmful effects of drug use and to seek timely help from health services and de-addiction centers rather than concealing such issues.
She further suggested that awareness activities such as street plays, speech contests, slogan writing, poster-making, wall paintings, rallies, and sports events should be organized at educational institutions and public places to raise public consciousness.
To ensure grassroots-level impact, Verma proposed forming anti-drug clubs in villages and initiating discussions in gram sabhas. She also advocated for the inclusion of self-help groups and youth clubs in the campaign to strengthen community-based interventions.
