Inter-Departmental Coordination Essential for Drug-Free Society: ADM
Instructions to GIS-map drug hotspots in Dehradun and strengthen monitoring; strict action against illegal drug trade
Dehradun, September 9, 2026: In compliance with the directions of District Magistrate Dr. Ashish Chauhan, a district-level NCORD committee meeting was held on Wednesday under the chairmanship of Additional District Magistrate (Administration) Smrita Parmar. The meeting reviewed the effective implementation of provisions under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, measures to prevent illegal cultivation of opium, poppy and related crops, and steps to curb drug use and the illegal narcotics trade.
The Additional District Magistrate directed all concerned departments to work in close coordination and launch a comprehensive public awareness campaign alongside enforcement measures to check the growing menace of drug abuse and illegal narcotics trade in the district.
She said drug abuse is not merely a law-and-order issue but a serious challenge affecting society and, particularly, the future of the younger generation. Therefore, she stressed the need for a coordinated and sustained strategy combining strict enforcement, awareness and rehabilitation.
Awareness Programmes to Be Strengthened in Educational Institutions
The ADM directed the Education, Police, Health and Social Welfare departments to jointly conduct awareness campaigns on the harmful effects of substance abuse.
She instructed officials to organise regular workshops, awareness programmes and interactive sessions in schools and colleges to educate students about the physical, mental and social consequences of drug abuse as well as preventive measures.
She also emphasised the importance of engaging young people in sports, education and other constructive activities to help prevent them from falling into substance abuse.
GIS Mapping of Drug Hotspots
The Police Department was directed to conduct GIS mapping of drug-affected and vulnerable hotspots across the district. The ADM said the mapped areas should be regularly monitored and targeted enforcement and awareness activities should be undertaken wherever required.
She further directed the police to take effective action against individuals involved in the illegal sale, purchase, trafficking and distribution of narcotic substances in accordance with the law.
Regular Action Against Illegal Poppy Cultivation
The Excise Department was instructed to conduct regular inspections and raids in vulnerable areas to ensure an effective ban on illegal poppy cultivation. Officials were also directed to respond promptly to information related to prohibited narcotic activities.
Focus on Treatment and Rehabilitation
The ADM stressed that the fight against drugs should not be limited to action against illegal networks. Individuals affected by substance abuse must also be identified and provided with appropriate healthcare, treatment, counselling and social rehabilitation support through coordinated departmental efforts.
She directed all departments to ensure that the district’s anti-drug campaign remains continuous, effective and result-oriented. Officials were also instructed to regularly review enforcement and awareness activities and work according to a concrete action plan through inter-departmental coordination.
Chief Medical Officer Dr. Manoj Kumar Sharma, Circle Officer Ankit Kandari, District Social Welfare Officer Deepankar Gildiyal, Excise Inspector Shiv Prasad Vyas and officials from the Education, Police, Health, Excise and other concerned departments attended the meeting.
