Ganderbal, February 18: Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore, Tuesday convened a meeting of Narco Coordination Committee (NCORD) to assess the effectiveness of the district’s anti-drug initiatives and reinforce efforts towards a drug-free environment.
At the outset, the DC took a detailed appraisal from concerned members of NCORD Committee regarding the present scenario of drug related occurrences, various issues related to menace of drug addiction, its control and rehabilitation.
Emphasising the significance of a coordinated approach, the DC highlighted the need for a robust monitoring and evaluation system to ensure the success of anti-drug measures. He stressed the importance of regular awareness campaigns, particularly targeting the youth, to educate them about the harmful effects of drug abuse. During the discussion on measures taken to combat drug abuse, the meeting was informed that 100 percent of medical shops in the district have installed CCTV cameras, and over 82 percent have transitioned to computerized billing systems.
The DC directed the concerned department to conduct regular prescription audits, especially in non-computerised medical shops, to prevent the sale of banned drugs. Furthermore, the meeting was informed that 64 Panchayats have been declared ‘Nasha Mukt,’ and wild cannabis spread over 300 kanals of land was destroyed last year. Farmers were encouraged to cultivate alternative crops on such land to discourage illegal cultivation.
The DC urged all departments to intensify their efforts against drug abuse and work collaboratively to address drug-related concerns effectively. The Police Department was instructed to maintain strict surveillance on drug peddlers, ensuring that all movable and immovable property of offenders is seized immediately. The meeting was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner Gulzar Ahmad, Dy.SP (HQ), SDM Kangan, Chief Medical Officer, Chief Education Officer , Chief Agriculture Officer, District Social Welfare Officer, Tehsildars and other concerned officials.
