Deputy Commissioner reviews drug abuse control measures in Doda

DODA, JUNE 29: Doda Deputy Commissioner Harvinder Singh chaired a meeting of the District Level NCORD Committee at his office chamber today to discuss the issue of drug abuse in the district. The meeting was attended by key stakeholders including law enforcement officials, health department officials, education department representatives and members of non-governmental organizations.

During the meeting, Deputy Commissioner Harvinder Singh stressed the urgent need to tackle drug abuse through a multi-pronged approach. He directed law enforcement agencies to intensify efforts to curb drug trafficking by increasing patrols in infected areas and strengthening surveillance at entry points. He further directed the health department to ensure availability and proper use of drug testing kits in medical facilities to aid in early detection and intervention.

The strategic actions discussed included conducting information campaigns in schools and communities aimed at educating people, especially young people, about the dangers of drug abuse.
The Deputy Commissioner urged the education department to include drug education in the school curriculum and organise workshops and seminars with the help of non-governmental organisations.

Preventive measures such as the creation of rehabilitation centers and the provision of counseling services for addicts were also highlighted. The Deputy Commissioner called for concerted efforts by all stakeholders to develop a comprehensive action plan to curb drug abuse, prevent human trafficking and support those affected through treatment and rehabilitation programs.

During the DC meeting, Doda directed the health department to ensure a “yellow line” operation to check any cases of drug abuse near the educational zone. Thanks to this campaign, no tobacco products will be allowed beyond the yellow line. The university has placed a sign outside the gate stating that no tobacco products will be sold within 100 meters of the university or schools.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from all participants to work together to create a drug-free neighborhood, ensuring the safety and well-being of the community.

The meeting was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner Sudershan Kumar, ASP Shakeel Ul Rehman, ACR Sunil Bhutyal, ACD Manoj Kumar, District Programme Projects Officer S. Parmjeet Singh, ACP Mushraf Ali Haf, Chief Education Officer PL Thapa, Chief Marketing Officer Om Prakash, General Manager Anil Kumar Gupta, District Vaccination Officer Dr Varsha Kotwal and representatives of the departments concerned.