Excelsior Correspondent
BANDIPORA, Feb 17: To review ongoing efforts and to address the challenges posed by substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking, a meeting of the District Level Committee under Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD) was today held at Mini secretariat here.
The meeting chaired by Deputy Commissioner (DC) Bandipora, Shakeel Ul Rehman discussed in detail emerging trends, trafficking, patterns of drug abuse, access to treatment and rehabilitation services, and enforcement measures besides other key issues.
The DC asked the concerned to frame an advance calendar of activities to educate more people regarding the ill effects of drug abuse and to reach out to the vulnerable sections of the society.
He emphasized upon coordination of different departments and NGOs and asked the concerned agencies to conduct more effective awareness programs regarding ill effects of substance abuse and preventive measures in close coordination and involvement of PRIs.
Rather said that District Development Council Members and other public representatives have an active role to play to spread awareness at the grassroots level.
The DC impressed upon the Tehsildars and other concerned agencies to ensure that no Tobacco product is sold near schools. He asked all the concerned stakeholders, including social welfare, health, education, and others, to implement joint efforts to make a drug free society.
He also warned of more strict action against drug dealers and peddlers.
The DC also stressed the role of religious scholars in Community-led initiatives addressing the problems of substance abuse. He said religious scholars can play a unique role in the battle against substance abuse and illicit drug trade and urged them to generate awareness at the local level in safeguarding our communities and protecting our youth from the harms of drugs.
The meeting was attended by Vice Chairperson District Development Council Kousar Shafeeq, DDC Members Mewa Jan, Tasleema Akhtar, Dr. Mustafa Khan, Raja Aijaz, Superintendent of Police Shafat Mohammad, ACD Mumtaz Ahmad, Tehsildar, CMO, CEO, CAO, BMO and officers from Excise Department, Drugs Control, ATF, DDAC and other concerned.
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