Evolve plans to check alcoholism, drug abuse: Centre to states

With an aim to curb alcoholism and drugs abuse, the Centre has asked the state governments to evolve action plans for tackling these problems especially in schools and colleges.

“Evolve and strengthen appropriate model for prevention of alcoholism, drug and substance abuse, treatment and rehabilitation of drug dependent individuals based on scientific evidence, both universal and targeted, in a range of settings (such as schools, families,...workplaces, communities, health and social services and prisons),” the Social Justice Ministry said to the states.

“Set up an interdepartmental group under the Chief Secretary to ensure coordination between agencies responsible for ensuring reduction in drug supply and demand reduction activities,” it said.

This advisory holds significance as it comes ahead of next year’s assembly elections in Punjab and Goa -- the states which are worst affected by the use of drugs. The ministry said there are  several layers of traffickers in the illicit drug market who are the link between the manufacturers and the street peddlers. 

“Apprehending and prosecuting them is one of the most important elements of drug control. State law enforcement authorities will need to work with central agencies to identify and act against persons dealing in illicit drugs at different levels,” it added. The Centre has also advised that the states and the Union territories can access available local information to devise specific strategies for reducing drug demand. At the same time, the advisory also emphasised on increasing community participation and public cooperation in reduction of demand for dependence-producing substances.