Advisor to the Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory of Ladakh, Dr Pawan Kotwal, chaired the 5th UT Level Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD) committee meeting at the Civil Secretariat on March 29.

The committee reviewed the actions taken following the outcomes of the 4th UT Level NCORD meeting and deliberated on various crucial issues concerning drug trafficking prevention, rehabilitation, and awareness campaigns within the state.

At the outset, a comprehensive presentation was given by the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Leh-Kargil Range (Member Convenor of the UT level NCORD Committee), on issues concerning drug trafficking prevention, rehabilitation, and awareness campaigns within Ladakh.

Deliberations were held on the actions taken and the progress made based on the resolutions of the previous NCORD meeting, emphasising the need for effective implementation and follow-up actions. The committee examined the prevailing drug trafficking situation in Ladakh and deliberated on strategies to combat it, including stringent actions against drug peddlers.

The committee explored measures for rehabilitating victims of substance abuse, focusing on the functioning of Drug De-addiction Centers (DDACs) and strategies for countering supply chains.

The chairperson directed to expedite the establishment of Drug De-Addiction Centers and instructed officials to ensure the readiness of essential facilities by 1st May 2024. “Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and staffed by dedicated professionals, the centers will serve as beacons of hope for those grappling with addiction, offering comprehensive support and rehabilitation services,” he stated.

Dr Kotwal emphasised the importance of coordination among all stakeholders involved in combating drug trafficking and substance abuse. He stressed the involvement of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), religious institutions, and other stakeholders in fostering awareness and prevention initiatives.

The meeting concluded with a determination to implement the discussed strategies effectively, fostering a drug-free and healthier society in UT Ladakh.

The meeting was attended by the Additional Director General of Police, UT Ladakh; the Administrative Secretaries of the Social and Tribal Welfare Department, Health and Medical Education Department, and Excise and State Taxes Department; the Director of Health Services, Deputy Commissioner of Leh, Superintendent of Police Leh, and Drug Controller of UT Ladakh. Meanwhile, the Zonal Director of NCB, Jammu; the Deputy Commissioner of Kargil; the Senior Superintendent of Police of Kargil; and the Chief Medical Officer of Kargil joined the meeting virtually.