CM Pushkar Singh Dham virtually participated in the regional conference on drug trafficking and national security held under the chairmanship of Union Home Minister Amit Shah. He informed about the steps taken, special campaigns and targets set for the prevention of narcotics in Uttarakhand. The Chief Minister said that the state is rapidly moving towards the resolve of a drug-free Uttarakhand by 2025 and efforts are being made at various levels to contribute to the goal of a developed and drug-free India by 2047.
Emphasizing on the inter-linkage of drug trafficking and national security, he said that the inclination of youth towards drugs can become a threat to social disintegration as well as security. Extensive work is being done at the institutional, enforcement and awareness level in Uttarakhand to prevent this. Strict action is being taken against the criminals involved in the illegal trade of drugs and law enforcement has been strengthened through the Anti-Narcotics Task Force. Stringent action is being taken against the accused under NDPS Act.
In the state, centres have been set up at the district level for the rehabilitation of people affected by drugs, while strict legal provisions have been implemented on drug dealers. Under the public awareness campaign, Mahila Mangal Dal and Yuva Mangal Dal have been actively associated, special awareness campaigns are being run and camps are being set up till remote areas. Counsellors have been appointed in jails and schools and a toll-free helpline number has been issued.
In the last year, 2,183 awareness rallies, 1,050 seminars, 75 street plays and 10 marathons were organized through which more than three lakh students and citizens were made aware. With the collective efforts of the government, various departments and institutions, the de-addiction campaign is being carried forward effectively.