Monthly NCORD meeting held at Shopian

SHOPIAN: To strategize the multi pronged efforts against the menace of drug addiction across the district, a district level Narco Coordination (NCORD) meeting was held today at Mini-Secretariat Shopian. The meeting, chaired by Deputy Commissioner (DC) Shopian, Shishir Gupta, detailed department wise action plans aimed at strengthening the fight against drug abuse.

DC emphasized the critical role of departments in combating the rising menace of drug abuse. He directed the Drug Control Department to continue the pharmacy inspections and ensure compliance to drug storage, dispensing and other norms and intensify penal action including suspensions against violations.

Revenue, Police, Agriculture and Excise Departments were stressed to gear up and take preventive measures against the illicit crop cultivation in hotspot areas and the growth of wild bhung. “Take strict action against the cultivators of illicit crops including poppy,” DC instructed officers.

Additionally, the police department was instructed to implement stringent measures against individuals involved in drug peddling, and efforts were highlighted to identify and rehabilitate victims of drug abuse through institutional support of the Addiction Treatment Facility.

DC focused on enhancing Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) activities to raise awareness about drug abuse especially at Morning Assemblies across schools and colleges. “Engage more people at Panchayat level in the ongoing IEC Campaign on Drug Abuse,” DC instructed Officers.

SSP, Anayat Ali joined the meeting virtually, while ADC, Dr.Zakir Hussain Faaz; SDM  Zainapora, ACD, Tehsildars, other district officers of Agriculture, Horticulture, Information, Social Welfare, Health, Drug Control, Excise and other concerned attended the meeting in person.