PASIGHAT, 28 May: Enforcement measures, rehabilitation initiatives, and awareness programmes against drug abuse, alcoholism and related social issues were discussed during a narco-coordination (NCORD) meeting chaired here in East Siang district by Deputy Commissioner Sonalika Jiwani on Thursday.
The meeting was attended by SP Pankaj Lamba, along with officers from various departments, and stakeholders.
Reviewing the action taken report of the previous meeting, the SP informed that intensive joint checking and inspection drives were conducted by the Police Department, district administration and the Department of Tax & Excise against illegal sale of liquor, tobacco and narcotic substances across different parts of the district.
The meeting also reviewed destruction drives against wild cannabis cultivation undertaken jointly by the district administration, the police and the Forest Department in identified areas of Pasighat and adjoining regions.
Awareness campaigns against drug abuse and substance addiction were also conducted across various locations in the district through coordinated efforts of the police and stakeholders, reaching a large number of people.
In addition, the functioning of seven de-addiction centres in the district, and ongoing rehabilitation efforts were reviewed, while the Department of Industry informed that recovering addicts are being encouraged to undertake vocational and skill-based training programmes, including computer training, mushroom cultivation and electrician courses.
The deputy commissioner stressed the need to engage youths in positive and constructive activities such as sports matches, exposure tours, and educational campus visits for students aspiring for higher studies and career opportunities.
The meeting also emphasised on strict implementation of the COTPA, especially prohibition of sale of tobacco products within 500 metres of schools. The Education Department was directed to identify vulnerable areas where tobacco counters operate illegally for necessary action.
The departments concerned were also directed to conduct surveys in areas associated with alcohol abuse and gambling activities. The DC stressed the need to make such illegal activities economically unviable through sustained enforcement and strict adherence to bar timing regulations.
The SP appreciated the role of government rehabilitation centres, and said that success stories of recovering addicts and facilities available at rehabilitation centres would be promoted through media platforms to spread awareness and encourage more individuals to seek help.
The meeting concluded with a collective commitment from all stakeholders to continue coordinated efforts towards building a drug-free and socially responsible society in East Siang district.
In West Siang district, an NCORD meeting was chaired in headquarters Aalo by Deputy Commissioner (i/c) Koj Tacho.
DSP Taba Biroy presented a brief on the latest status of registered cases, and appealed to the civil society to create awareness on drug abuse.
The DSP said that reducing demand and supply is the key to break the drug chain. He advocated strengthening intelligence-sharing mechanisms, enhancing community awareness campaigns, monitoring vulnerable areas, and ensuring timely rehabilitation support for affected individuals.
The meeting reviewed the action taken reports since the last NCORD meeting from all stakeholders, status of drug law enforcement, rehabilitation initiatives, preventive awareness programmes, and inter-departmental coordination efforts undertaken during the past month.
Representatives from the departments and agencies concerned participated in the meeting and shared updates on actions taken to curb drug trafficking and substance abuse.
During the meeting, officials highlighted recent achievements, and the challenges faced in implementing anti-drug measures. Directions were issued for intensified surveillance and stricter enforcement against illegal drug activities.
The participants resolved to continue sustained awareness and preventive initiatives against drugs across the district. The members further suggested holding monthly sector-wise programmes in the entire Aalo township, so that necessary awareness and strict checking can be initiated. (DIPROs)
