“Government to Honor Anti-Drug Heroes, Act Against Lax Officials,” Says Haryana CM Naib Singh Saini

Special Secretariat Links 7 States to Combat Drug Menace

Key Highlights:

• Haryana establishes an inter-state secretariat to tackle drug trafficking.
• 52 de-addiction centers operational across the state.
• Special Task Force formed for strict action against drug syndicates.
• Public awareness campaigns reach the grassroots level through rallies and programs.

Panchkula, December 18 – Haryana Chief Minister Naib Singh Saini, in a strong stance against the rising drug problem, announced a dual strategy of rewards and punishments to ensure accountability in the fight against substance abuse. Speaking at a high-profile anti-drug event in Panchkula, he emphasized that villages and officials making significant strides in curbing the drug trade will be honored, while those showing negligence will face strict action.

“Drug abuse is a blight we cannot afford to tolerate. Our government is resolute in making Haryana a drug-free state, and any laxity in this mission will not be spared,” said CM Saini during the event, which saw active participation from senior officials and citizens alike.

The Global Threat of Narco-Terrorism

Highlighting the global dimensions of the drug problem, the Chief Minister pointed out how drug trafficking has evolved into a tool for narco-terrorism. He warned that terrorist syndicates using narcotics to fund their activities pose a grave threat to national security and sovereignty.

“Our fight against drugs is not just about saving lives; it is a battle for the safety and future of our nation,” he added.

State-Level Initiatives to Tackle Drug Abuse

Haryana has taken proactive measures to combat drug addiction:

• Massive Awareness Drive: A state-level cycling rally launched on September 1, 2023, traversed every district of Haryana, spreading awareness about drug abuse.
• Comprehensive Action Plan: Earlier, on May 5, 2023, a state action plan was launched focusing on public awareness, de-addiction and rehabilitation, and stringent action against drug peddlers.

Panchkula Inter-State Secretariat: A Game-Changer

To address the inter-state nature of drug trafficking, the government established an Inter-State Secretariat in Panchkula, bringing together representatives from seven northern states—Haryana, Punjab, Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, Chandigarh, Uttarakhand, and Rajasthan.

“This secretariat facilitates real-time coordination and information sharing between states to dismantle drug syndicates,” the CM explained.

Narendra Modi’s Vision for a Drug-Free India

CM Saini credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “zero-tolerance” policy on drugs for inspiring Haryana’s aggressive stance. Referring to Modi’s call during the Mann Ki Baat program, he urged citizens to use the national anti-drug helpline ‘MANAS’ and stand united against the scourge.

“Drug addiction disrupts families and erodes societal values. The Prime Minister’s message is a clarion call to fight this menace together,” said Saini.

Infrastructure for Rehabilitation and Enforcement

Haryana has fortified its anti-drug infrastructure:

• De-Addiction Centers: 52 centers across eight districts and de-addiction wards in government medical colleges.
• Mobile App ‘Saathi’: Designed to curb the illegal sale of prescription drugs by tracking all chemist stores.
• Anti-Narcotics Cells: Established at district, range, and state levels to combat drug trafficking effectively.

Engaging Communities and Religious Leaders

To amplify its outreach, the government is partnering with religious leaders, NGOs, and local communities. Programs like “Dhakad” target youth in schools, colleges, and universities, educating them on the dangers of drug abuse. Events such as marathons and Raahgiri campaigns are organized to engage the public actively.

“We aim to channelize the energy of our youth into constructive activities while educating them about the devastating impact of drugs,” the CM remarked.

Pledge for a Drug-Free Haryana

In a heartfelt conclusion, CM Saini led the attendees in taking a solemn pledge to abstain from drugs and help others overcome addiction. “Parents must actively engage with their children, listen to them, and provide proper guidance to keep them away from drugs,” he advised.

The event saw the presence of Rajya Sabha MP Kartikeya Sharma, Home Secretary Sumita Mishra, senior health officials, and other dignitaries, marking a collective commitment to a drug-free Haryana.

#DrugFreeHaryana #SayNoToDrugs #AntiNarcoticsMission #YouthAgainstDrugs #HaryanaFightsBack