Mandi (Kameshwar Sharma): The Mandi NCORD meeting on drug control highlighted strong measures to curb drug abuse in the district. Deputy Commissioner Apurva Devgan chaired the monthly meeting of the Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD) and issued clear directions to all departments.
He emphasized strict action against drug networks. At the same time, he asked departments to improve coordination. According to him, agencies like police, NCB, and STF must receive immediate support from the revenue department whenever required.
Focus on Coordination and Accountability
During the Mandi NCORD meeting on drug control, Devgan instructed officials to respond quickly when law enforcement agencies seek assistance. Moreover, he made it mandatory for concerned officers to appear as witnesses when required.
He stressed that controlling drug supply alone is not enough. Instead, authorities must also reduce demand. Therefore, the administration will prepare a strong strategy within one week for 24 identified red zone panchayats. Each department will have a clearly defined role in this plan.
Mandi NCORD Meeting on Drug Control: Action Against Illegal Cultivation
Furthermore, the Mandi NCORD meeting on drug control focused on illegal cultivation of cannabis and poppy. Devgan directed the forest department to remain highly active during the growing season.
He pointed out that authorities often detect illegal crops on private land. However, monitoring forest land requires more attention. Therefore, he ordered strict action against any illegal cultivation found on forest land. He also instructed officials to destroy naturally grown cannabis plants immediately.
Property Seizure Under NDPS Act
In addition, Devgan emphasized using legal provisions to weaken drug networks. During the Mandi NCORD meeting on drug control, he directed all departments to work together to seize the properties of accused persons under the NDPS Act.
He believes that financial action can significantly reduce drug-related activities. Hence, better coordination among departments will ensure effective implementation of these measures.
Monitoring Around Educational Institutions
Meanwhile, the administration is also focusing on prevention among youth. The Mandi NCORD meeting on drug control directed officials to regularly inspect shops near schools and colleges.
Devgan clarified that no such cases have been reported so far. However, he stressed the need for constant vigilance. Additionally, under the “Apna Vidyalaya” program, officers must visit schools regularly. These visits will help spread awareness among students about the dangers of drug abuse.
Data Highlights Growing Concern
The meeting also reviewed recent data related to drug cases. So far this year, authorities have registered 122 cases under the NDPS Act. Police have arrested 178 accused individuals.
These cases include opium, heroin, charas, banned medicines, and illegal cultivation of poppy and cannabis. The data shows that enforcement agencies are actively working against drug networks.
Mandi NCORD Meeting on Drug Control: Public Cooperation Encouraged
Additionally, Additional Superintendent of Police Abhimanyu Verma urged citizens to report any suspicious activity. He assured that authorities will keep the identity of informants completely confidential.
He added that people can directly contact senior police officials, including SP, ASP, DSP, or SHO, to share information about illegal drug activities.
Strong Multi-Department Approach
Overall, the Mandi NCORD meeting on drug control reflected a strong and coordinated approach. Officials from multiple departments, including municipal authorities, police, health, and welfare departments, attended the meeting.
The administration aims to combine enforcement, awareness, and coordination to tackle drug abuse effectively. Therefore, strict action, public participation, and preventive measures will play a key role in achieving long-term results.
Key Points Summary of Mandi NCORD Meeting on Drug Control:
- Mandi NCORD meeting on drug control calls for strict action.
- Strategy to be prepared for 24 red zone panchayats.
- Focus on illegal cannabis and poppy cultivation.
- 122 NDPS cases registered, 178 accused arrested.
- Public urged to report drug activities confidentially.