||Black and White Digital News ||

||Parvinder Singh July 16 ,2024 ||

Home Minister to Launch National Narcotics Helpline and Inaugurate NCB Zonal Office in Srinagar.

DELHI : Union Home Minister Amit Shah is set to preside over the 7th apex level meeting of the Narco-Coordination Center (NCORD) on July 18 in New Delhi. This critical gathering marks a significant advancement in India’s fight against drug trafficking and abuse, with several pivotal initiatives poised to be unveiled.

In a move underscoring the government’s unwavering commitment to eradicating the drug menace, Shah will launch the National Narcotics Helpline ‘MANAS’ (Madak Padarth Nisedh Asuchna Kendra). The helpline aims to provide crucial support and information to individuals affected by drug abuse, ensuring timely intervention and assistance.

Additionally, Shah will inaugurate the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) Zonal Office in Srinagar, a strategic step aimed at bolstering the region’s capacity to combat narcotics. The inauguration of this office symbolizes the government’s resolve to intensify its anti-drug efforts in Jammu and Kashmir, a region often plagued by drug trafficking challenges.

A key highlight of the meeting will be the release of the NCB ‘Annual Report 2023’ and a comprehensive compendium on ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat’ (Drug-Free India). These documents will provide an in-depth analysis of the current drug scenario in the country and outline the strategies and achievements of various narcotics control initiatives over the past year.

A United Front Against Drug Trafficking:

The NCORD meeting aims to enhance coordination and synergize the efforts of various Central and State Government agencies involved in countering drug trafficking and abuse in India. This integrated approach is crucial for addressing the multifaceted nature of the drug problem, which transcends state boundaries and involves numerous stakeholders.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Government of India has adopted a ‘Zero Tolerance Policy’ against drug trafficking. This robust stance reflects a comprehensive strategy to curb the drug menace and safeguard the nation’s youth from the perils of substance abuse.

An official release highlighted that the Ministry of Home Affairs is steadfastly working towards achieving PM Modi’s ambitious goal of a drug-free India by 2047. This vision will be realized through a three-pronged strategy: strengthening institutional structures, ensuring seamless coordination among all narcotics agencies, and launching extensive public awareness campaigns.

Strengthening Institutional Structures:

The NCORD mechanism, established in 2016, was designed to facilitate better coordination between the States and the Ministry of Home Affairs. Recognizing the need for a more robust framework, the mechanism was further strengthened in 2019 through a four-tier system. This system includes the Apex Level NCORD Committee, led by the Union Home Secretary, and the Executive Level NCORD Committee, headed by the Special Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs. At the state level, NCORD Committees are chaired by Chief Secretaries, while at the district level, District Magistrates lead the efforts.

This hierarchical structure ensures that anti-narcotics initiatives are effectively implemented and monitored across all levels of governance, fostering a cohesive and comprehensive approach to drug control.

Coordination and Public Awareness:

Coordination among various agencies is a cornerstone of the government’s strategy. By fostering collaboration between central and state bodies, the NCORD mechanism aims to create a unified front against drug trafficking. This cooperative approach is essential for dismantling complex drug networks and ensuring that efforts are not duplicated or counterproductive.

Public awareness campaigns form the third pillar of the strategy. These campaigns aim to educate citizens about the dangers of drug abuse, promote healthy lifestyles, and encourage community participation in anti-drug initiatives. By raising awareness and reducing stigma, the government hopes to create a supportive environment for individuals seeking help and rehabilitation.

The Road Ahead: The upcoming NCORD meeting is poised to be a landmark event in India’s battle against drugs. With Amit Shah at the helm, the initiatives launched and decisions taken at this meeting will set the tone for future efforts and shape the trajectory of the country’s anti-drug policies.

As India marches towards the goal of a drug-free nation by 2047, the combined efforts of government agencies, civil society, and the public will be crucial. The launch of the MANAS helpline, the inauguration of the NCB Zonal Office in Srinagar, and the release of key reports underscore the government’s commitment to tackling this issue head-on and ensuring a safer, healthier future for all Indians.