Kathua : Deputy Commissioner Rakesh Minhas on Friday chaired a meeting of the District Level Committee under the Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD) to discuss and review measures aimed at curbing drug abuse and the narcotics trade in the district.
During the meeting, extensive deliberations were held on issues pertaining to drug addiction, identification of areas of concern, and hotspots of drug abuse. Additionally, measures undertaken by law enforcement agencies to combat this menace were thoroughly examined.
The Assistant Drug Controller provided an update on the installation of CCTV cameras in pharmacies, with a total of 638 out of 692 cameras already operational. These cameras are crucial in monitoring the sale of psychotropic drugs over the counter.
Furthermore, it was highlighted that 50 pharmacy licenses were revoked due to non-compliance with guidelines and directives.
Instructing ADCs and SDMs to maintain a stringent vigilance on the sale of over-the-counter drugs, the Deputy Commissioner emphasized the need for random inspections of pharmaceutical establishments to ensure the efficacy of CCTV surveillance systems. SDM Bani was specifically directed to prevent the cultivation of narcotics and psychotropic substances in the hilly terrains known for such activities.
The DC urged concerned authorities to take action against unregistered de-addiction centers operating within Kathua. Reviewing the Nasha Mukat Panchayat campaign, the DC directed ADC Basohli, ADC Billawar, SDM Hiranagar, and SDM Bani to identify and declare five panchayats each in their respective jurisdictions as Nasha Mukt Panchayats.
Chief Education Officer was tasked with launching an extensive awareness campaign in schools to educate students about the perils of drug abuse. Lastly, the DC instructed the Chief Medical Officer to compile a comprehensive list of de-addiction centers and clinics operating in the district.
Among others, SSP Kathua, ADC Kathua, ACD, CMO, CEO, Officers from BSF and other departments were also present.
