YUPIA,
A meeting of the Narcotics Coordination (NCORD) Committee was held at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall in Yupia under the chairmanship of Papum Pare Deputy Commissioner (DC) Lobsang Tsering, focusing on strengthening anti-drug measures and inter-departmental coordination.
Addressing the meeting, the DC underscored the seriousness of the government’s efforts to curb drug abuse and called for collective responsibility from all stakeholders.
“The movement against drug abuse has been intensified following the constitution of NCORD Committees at various levels. We must work together to effectively tackle this menace,” he said.
Tsering reiterated the government’s commitment to creating a safer and healthier society free from drug abuse.
The DC also referred to concerns regarding Mengio being marked in the State’s map of illegal cannabis cultivation. He clarified that no active illegal cultivation is currently being carried out in Mengio, except for naturally growing wild cannabis in certain areas, and suggested its removal from the cultivation map.
He directed the Police Department and district administration to form joint teams for the destruction of wild cannabis along roadsides and other areas and to submit Action Taken Reports (ATRs) to the government.
He further advised Circle Officers of Leporiang, Parang, Mengio and Sagalee to jointly plan and carry out regular destruction drives within their jurisdictions to eliminate wild cannabis growth.
Emphasising accountability, Tsering stated that Action Taken Reports must be prepared in both hard and soft copies and presented by all departments during NCORD meetings.
Tsering, who also serves as Commissioner of Tax and Narcotics, assured full support in strengthening training and capacity-building initiatives to enhance anti-drug efforts.
He stressed the need for convergence among key departments, including Education, Women and Child Development, Information and Public Relations and Health, for intensified awareness campaigns against drug abuse.
NCORD convener Phassang Simi briefed the members on previous Action Taken Reports and called for stronger coordination, stating that drug addiction is severely impacting families and society.
He also raised concern over the absence of a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for admission of mentally disturbed persons at the mental health facility and urged the Deputy Commissioner to take up the matter for necessary action.
The DC also took serious note of the absence of some departments during the meeting and directed that all concerned departments must ensure mandatory presence and active participation in future NCORD meetings. (DIPR)
