DM Ramban Chairs District-Level NCORD Meeting, Calls for Intensified Drive Against Drug Abuse

Ramban, September 30: District Magistrate Ramban, Mohammad Alyas Khan, today directed all stakeholder departments to intensify joint efforts to curb drug abuse and illicit trafficking across the district. He was chairing a meeting of the District-level NCORD Committee held in his office chambers.

The meeting was attended by SSP Arun Gupta, ADC Varunjeet Singh Charak, ACR Shokat Hayat Mattoo, SDMs, ACD, SDWO, CMO, BDOs, CEO, Tehsildars, and other concerned officers.

Taking stock of cannabis destruction, the DC instructed the Revenue, Police, Excise, Agriculture, and Horticulture departments to ensure complete destruction of cannabis, if any, from their respective areas. He also reviewed the functioning of Drug De-Addiction Centres at District Hospital Ramban and directed its further upgradation.

The Drug Inspector was directed to strictly check prescriptions, monitor stock status, ensure proper functioning of CCTV cameras and CBS in chemist shops, verify suspicious courier orders, and keep strict vigil on unauthorized drug sales.

The District Magistrate asked departments to adopt a coordinated strategy with SDMs and Tehsildars to ensure a drug free society. He also directed the ACD to formulate District Youth Clubs in all panchayats to channelize the energy of youth in constructive activities and towards building a drug-free society.

During the meeting, the SSP stressed conducting joint inspections to curb drug abuse and trafficking; including intensified awareness drives in educational institutions, strict surveillance in vulnerable areas, and coordinated action among police, civil administration, and health departments.

The Excise Department, DSWO, and Drug Inspector were instructed to organize effective awareness programmes in schools, colleges, and public places to sensitize youth about the ill effects of substance abuse.

Reviewing treatment facilities, the DM directed the CMO to ensure regular counseling and follow-up check-ups of identified and recovered patients to prevent relapse.

The District Administration reiterated its zero-tolerance policy against drug abuse. The DM also appealed to parents to remain vigilant about their children and guide them to stay away from drugs.