Advisor to the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor, UT Ladakh, Dr Pawan Kotwal Chairs 5th UT Level NARCO Coordination Centre Meeting

Leh, Mar. 29, 2024: The Advisor to the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor, UT Ladakh Dr Pawan Kotwal, chaired the 5^th UT Level NARCO Coordination Centre (NCORD) committee meeting at the Civil Secretariat, Leh.

The committee reviewed the actions taken on the outcomes of the 4^th UT Level NCORD meeting, and deliberated upon various crucial issues concerning drug trafficking, prevention, rehabilitation, and awareness campaigns within the state.

At the outset, a comprehensive presentation was given by the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Leh-Kargil Range (Member Convenor of the UT level NCORD Committee) on issues concerning drug trafficking, prevention, rehabilitation, and awareness campaigns within Ladakh.

Deliberations were held on the actions taken and the progress made based on the previous NCORD meeting’s resolutions, emphasizing the need for effective implementation and follow-up actions. The committee examined the prevailing drug trafficking situation in Ladakh and deliberated on strategies to combat it, including stringent actions against drug peddlers.

The committee explored measures for the rehabilitation of victims of substance abuse, focusing on the functioning of Drug De-addiction Centers (DDACs) and strategies for countering the supply chains.

The Chairperson directed to expedite the establishment of Drug De-Addiction Centers and instructed the officials to ensure the readiness of the essential facilities by the 1^st of May, 2024. Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and staffed by dedicated professionals, the centers will serve as beacons of hope for those grappling with addiction, offering comprehensive support and rehabilitation services, he stated.

Dr Kotwal emphasized the importance of coordination among all stakeholders involved in combating drug trafficking and substance abuse. He stressed upon involving the Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), religious institutions, and other stakeholders in fostering awareness and prevention initiatives.

The meeting concluded with a determination to implement the discussed strategies effectively, fostering a drug-free and healthier society in UT Ladakh.

The meeting was attended by the Additional Director General of Police, UT Ladakh; the Administrative Secretaries Social & Tribal Welfare Department, Health & Medical Education Department, and Excise & State Taxes Department; Director Health Services, Deputy Commissioner, Leh; Superintendent of Police Leh; Drug Controller, UT Ladakh, while Zonal Director, NCB, Jammu; Deputy Commissioner, Kargil; Sr. Superintendent of Police, Kargil; Chief Medical Officer, Kargil joined the meeting virtually.