PASIGHAT/AALO, May 28: Monthly meetings of the Narco Coordination (NCORD) Committees were held in East Siang and West Siang districts on Thursday to review enforcement measures, rehabilitation initiatives and awareness programmes aimed at combating drug abuse, alcoholism and related social issues.
In East Siang, the 21st District NCORD meeting was chaired by Deputy Commissioner Sonalika Jiwani and attended by Superintendent of Police Pankaj Lamba, along with officials from various departments and stakeholders.
Reviewing the Action Taken Report of the previous meeting, the SP informed that joint checking and inspection drives were carried out by the Police Department, District Administration and Tax & Excise Department against illegal sale of liquor, tobacco and narcotic substances across the district.
The meeting reviewed multiple raids and seizures of IMFL, beer and breezer products, besides destruction drives against wild cannabis cultivation conducted jointly by the administration, police and Forest department in Pasighat and adjoining areas.
Awareness campaigns on drug abuse and substance addiction were also organized in different parts of the district. The meeting further reviewed the functioning of seven de-addiction centres and rehabilitation initiatives being undertaken in East Siang.
The Department of Industries informed that recovering addicts are being encouraged to take up vocational and skill-based training programmes such as computer education, mushroom cultivation and electrician courses.
DC Sonalika Jiwani stressed the need to engage youth in constructive activities including sports, exposure tours and educational visits for students aspiring for higher studies and career opportunities.
The meeting also emphasized strict implementation of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), particularly the ban on sale of tobacco products within 500 metres of schools. Concerned departments were directed to identify vulnerable areas and intensify action against illegal tobacco sales, alcohol abuse and gambling activities.
Meanwhile, the monthly NCORD Committee meeting in West Siang district was held at the DC’s conference hall in Aalo under the chairmanship of in-charge Deputy Commissioner Koj Tacho.
Deputy Superintendent of Police Taba Biroy briefed members on the latest cases registered and arrests made in connection with drug-related offences during the period under review. He appealed to civil society organizations to actively support awareness drives against drug abuse.
The meeting reviewed law enforcement measures, rehabilitation initiatives, preventive awareness programmes and inter-departmental coordination efforts undertaken over the past month.
Officials highlighted both achievements and challenges in implementing anti-drug measures, while directions were issued for intensified surveillance and stricter enforcement against illegal drug activities.
Members also suggested conducting monthly sector-wise awareness programmes across Aalo township to strengthen preventive initiatives and checking mechanisms.
The meetings in both districts concluded with a collective commitment from all departments and stakeholders to strengthen coordinated efforts towards building a drug-free and socially responsible society. (DIPROs)