Punjab CM Mann launches anti-drug helpline, WhatsApp chatbot

Mohali, August 28

Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday inaugurated office of the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) and launched anti-drug helpline and WhatsApp chatbot (9779100200).

Interacting with the media after inspecting the newly-constructed office and launching the helpline, the CM said the state government has decided to rechristen the apex state-level drug law enforcement unit as the ANTF instead of the present designation of Special Task Force. This cell will be functional on the second floor of the Sohana police station in Sector 79 adding that the building has been recently renovated at a cost of Rs 90 lakh.

The existing manpower of the ANTF is being doubled from the present 400 to 861, Mann said adding these new posts for ANTF would be created as part of the 10,000 new posts coming up for the Police Department.

He said the government has provided Rs 12 crore in the current financial year for developing the newly established intelligence and technical unit of the ANTF into state-of-the-art agency by procuring hi-tech software, hardware and upgradation of infrastructure. In order to improve the mobility of the ANTF, 14 new vehicles would also be provided, he added.

A separate land of one acre will be provided to ANTF in Mohali for establishing its independent headquarters adding that Rs 10 crore will be sanctioned to the ANTF from the Punjab State Cancer and Drug Addiction Treatment Infrastructure Fund for implementation of the Enforcement-De-Addiction-Prevention strategy of the state government.