Excelsior Correspondent
LEH, Jan 6: In an important meeting chaired by the Advisor to the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Dr Pawan Kotwal, officials discussed the urgent issue of substance abuse.
The central focus was on operationalizing District De-addiction Centres (DDACs) to effectively combat substance abuse challenges in Ladakh.
Commissioner Secretary Padma Angmo outlined guidelines for establishing and operating DDACs, emphasizing the commitment to tackle substance abuse.
The presentation detailed essential aspects, specifying the required sizes of the centres and highlighting key roles of DDAC personnel, encompassing counselling and identifying individuals struggling with substance use.
Financial norms crucial for sustaining the centres were thoroughly covered, including provisions for CCTV systems, almirahs, refrigerators, and other amenities to create a conducive rehabilitation environment.
The presentation also explored the broader scope of establishing De-Addiction Centres within prisons, addressing substance abuse issues in correctional facilities.
The initiative adopts a multi-faceted approach, integrating medical, psychological, and social interventions to combat addiction. Community involvement and awareness campaigns were highlighted to de-stigmatize addiction and encourage seeking help.
Dr Pawan Kotwal stressed active participation in the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, a national campaign against substance abuse.
District De-addiction Centres aim to provide a supportive environment, offering counselling, medical treatment, and tailored rehabilitation programs. The meeting concluded with a comprehensive action plan, expressing confidence in collective efforts to bring positive change to lives affected by addiction.
The meeting was attended by key officials, including the Commissioner Secretary, Social & Tribal Welfare; Deputy Commissioner, Leh; Director, Social & Tribal Welfare, UT Ladakh; Director Accounts & Treasury, UT Ladakh, among other officers.
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