my uttarakhand news Bureau
Dehradun, 1 Dec: The Dehradun district administration has launched a large-scale drug checking campaign in areas vulnerable to substance abuse, as well as around higher educational institutions and private and government schools, with the objective of curbing the illegal drug trade and addiction. This drive is being run on the instruction of District Magistrate Savin Bansal.
Under the supervision of SDM Harigir, the Health Department’s drug testing team carried out extensive testing of students at Graphic Era University, here today. The initiative aims to prevent drug use in higher educational institutions and ensure a safe learning environment. The District Magistrate reiterated that the campaign is being implemented under a strict zero-tolerance policy to protect students from drug addiction.
It may be recalled that the DM has issued firm instructions that if any student or child is found positive for drugs in any school or college, criminal proceedings will be initiated against the concerned Dean and College Owner. He emphasised that the administration is committed to translating the CM’s vision of a drug-free state into reality.
The drug testing team reached Graphic Era University early this morning and collected samples from a large number of students. Alongside testing, students were sensitised about the adverse health and career-related consequences of drug use. The campaign’s primary objective is to safeguard the youth from the harmful effects of narcotics.
It may be shared here that through the efforts of the DM, a 30-bedded De-addiction and Mental Health Centre is now being operated at the Old Age Home in Raiwala, Dehradun. In addition, the administration has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with AIIMS, reserving 10 beds for intensive therapy available seven days a week. To strengthen its response to the drug menace, the district administration has also set up its own Anti-Drugs Helpline Number: 9625777399.
On the District Magistrate’s instructions, Anti-Drugs Committees have been activated in all private and government educational institutions, with one male and one female student included in each committee. CCTV cameras have been installed near schools and in areas identified as prone to drug use.
To facilitate reporting of illegal drug activities, banners and posters displaying the Manas Helpline Number 1933, the NCV Manas Portal, and the District De-addiction Centre Helpline Number 9625777399 have been prominently placed in educational institutions and public areas, ensuring swift action on complaints. Drug testing is now also being conducted during nighttime traffic checks. Strict vigilance is being maintained over pharmaceutical factories and medical stores, with Drug Inspectors instructed to carry out regular inspections.
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