DW BUREAU / Shimla

Himachal Pradesh cabinet on Monday under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the Police, Social Justice and Empowerment and Health Departments made detailed presentations on the steps being taken to combat drug abuse in Himachal Pradesh. He stated, "The State Government has adopted a zero-tolerance policy towards the drug menace and is fully committed to protect the youth from falling victim to drug abuse." He emphasized the urgent need of coordinated actions to dismantle drug networks to protect the youth of the State from addiction.

The Cabinet decided to introduce mandatory dope testing for 'Chitta' during police recruitment. In addition, all new government employees will be required to submit an undertaking confirming they do not consume 'Chitta'. The Chief Minister made it clear that strict action would be taken against any government employees found involved in drug-related activities.

During the meeting, it was informed that the drug abuse situation in Himachal Pradesh remains under control, with NDPS cases accounting for nine percent of total cases, significantly lower than Punjab's 20 percent. It was also highlighted that under the tenure of the present State Government, 45 cases were registered, and properties worth Rs 42.22 crore belonging to individuals involved in drug-related activities were attached. This marks a more than two-fold increase in the number of cases and a three-fold increase in the value of properties seized as compared to previous periods. Additionally, under the provisions of the PIT-NDPS Act, 44 detention orders were issued and successfully executed.

The Health Department was directed to intensify its efforts in capacity building, awareness generation, treatment, counseling, follow-up, and rehabilitation of individuals affected by drug addiction. Integrated Rehabilitation Centres have already been established in Kullu, Hamirpur, Nurpur, and Una to facilitate recovery and re-integration into society. It was also informed during the meeting that a project with an outlay of Rs 14.95 crore will be launched to set up similar centres at all district headquarters, under the State Action Plan of the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment.

The Chief Minister further instructed that Mahila Mandals, Yuvak Mandals, Panchayati Raj Institutions, civil society organizations and the Education Department, to actively involve themselves in raising awareness about the harmful effects of drug abuse.

Emphasizing the need for a coordinated approach, the Chief Minister exhorted all departments to work jointly in waging a comprehensive war against substance abuse. He also stressed the importance of regular interstate border monitoring to prevent drug trafficking.

(editor@dailyworld.in)