360-degree approach needed to tackle drug menace, say DC, Commissioner

In a concerted effort to address the pressing issue of drug abuse in society, Deputy Commissioner Jitendra Jorwal, Police Commissioner Kuldeep Singh Chahal and SSP Ludhiana Rural Ankur Gupta emphasised the importance of a multi-faceted approach to combat drug abuse in Ludhiana.

They identified key strategies to tackle this critical issue, including strict law enforcement, rehabilitation of drug-affected individuals through treatment and counselling, skill development for their livelihood and a mass awareness drive.

During a meeting of the district-level NCORD committee, they reaffirmed their commitment to implement a comprehensive 360-degree strategy aimed at completely eliminating the drug menace. While efforts have been made to eliminate the supply of drugs, this initiative represents a significant first step in addressing drug demand by encouraging community involvement in the war against drug abuse. The officials stressed that prevention and enforcement activities would be conducted on a large scale.

They also mentioned that health institutions would be strengthened to provide proper treatment and counselling services to individuals struggling with addiction. These individuals would be offered various job opportunities and skill enhancement through training programmes to empower them to earn a livelihood. Furthermore, reformed drug dependents will be invited to deliver inspirational talks, sharing their experiences to motivate others to overcome addiction and contribute to the socio-economic development of the state. A mass awareness campaign against drug abuse will be launched, collaborating with civil society, industry, educational institutions, NGOs and others to support efforts to eradicate drugs, they added.

This programme aims to harness the widespread anti-drug sentiment among citizens, excluding those affected by addiction. Additionally, Asha and anganwadi workers will engage with the families of affected individuals to encourage them to seek treatment at nearby health institutions. Sports facilities in rural areas will also be revamped to engage youth, especially school and college students, in sports activities.

The DC, Commissioner and SSP praised Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, stating that steps had already been taken to eliminate the drug menace. They highlighted how drug de-addiction and OOAT (Opioid Agonist Therapy) centres were transforming the lives of many by providing essential treatment and counselling to help them overcome addiction. The meeting was attended by heads of various departments and other prominent individuals.