Deputy Commissioner Drass, Imteeaz Kacho (JKAS), on July 22 chaired a meeting of the Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD) to review the district's preparedness and strengthen coordinated efforts to curb drug trafficking and substance abuse.

The meeting was attended by Superintendent of Police, Drass, Ishtyaq Kacho (JKPS); Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Drass, Vishal Atri (JKAS); Block Medical Officer, Drass, Dr. Sajjad Hussain; Principal, Government Degree College, Drass, Nasir Shabani; Principal, Government Higher Secondary School, Drass, Safoora Bano; Principal, Government Higher Secondary School, Bhimbat, Tashi Ghylsan; Zonal Education Officer, Drass, Mohammad Ibrahim; Forest Range Officer, Drass, Mohammad Ilyaz; ITBP Check Post Officer, Sanjay Arya; and a representative from the Agriculture Department.

During the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner stressed the need for close inter-departmental coordination, regular random inspections by the District Police, strict enforcement of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, prevention of illegal cultivation of narcotic plants, and intensified awareness programmes in educational institutions to protect youth from drug abuse. He directed all concerned departments to work in close coordination to ensure a drug-free Drass.

He also emphasized involving civil society, religious leaders, youth ambassadors, students, and local celebrities in a sustained campaign against drug abuse. He directed the principals of the Government Degree College and schools, along with the Zonal Education Officer, to prepare and stage skits on the dangers of drug abuse in markets and other public places to spread awareness. He further suggested that one such skit be performed during this year's Independence Day celebrations.

Superintendent of Police Ishtyaq Kacho highlighted the initiatives being undertaken by the Police Department and urged all departments to complement the efforts through coordinated action.

The meeting also emphasized the need to develop playgrounds in all villages of Drass, provide youth with opportunities to showcase their talents through sports and extracurricular activities, and maintain close vigilance on youngsters showing signs of depression or social isolation, enabling timely support and intervention.