In a bold step towards eradicating drug abuse, the Himachal Pradesh Government is set to roll out the Anti-Chitta Volunteer Scheme (ACVS), engaging over 1,000 trained volunteers to bolster the fight against the rising menace of narcotics, particularly chitta. The move follows CM Sukhu’s announcement on Independence Day at Sarkaghat, District Mandi, reinforcing the state’s commitment to a drug-free Himachal.
The Police Headquarters has already submitted a comprehensive proposal to the government for implementation. The scheme aims to establish a community-driven, police-supported framework, enabling faster intelligence gathering, wider awareness outreach, and improved access to rehabilitation.
These Anti-Chitta Volunteers will actively:
-
Spread awareness in schools, colleges, and local communities about the dangers of narcotics.
-
Report drug hotspots, illegal activities, and offenders confidentially to police.
-
Assist in awareness initiatives like rallies, street plays, social media drives, and public campaigns.
-
Help connect drug-affected individuals and families to counseling and rehab services.
Each volunteer will undergo a two-day structured training covering the NDPS Act, basic policing procedures, and techniques for community engagement. For their contribution, they will receive an honorarium, though they will not be exposed to field-level enforcement. Their identity will be kept strictly confidential, with protection mechanisms in place in case of sensitive involvement.
A state government spokesperson highlighted that the Sukhu-led administration has prioritized the fight against drugs since taking office. “This initiative will enhance grassroots-level intelligence, improve community policing, and provide much-needed support to those affected by substance abuse,” the spokesperson said.
Since assuming power, the current government has:
-
Enforced the PIT-NDPS Act to crack down on habitual offenders.
-
Seized over ₹42 crore worth of drug mafia properties.
-
Made chitta drug testing mandatory in police recruitment.
Chief Minister Sukhu remarked, “Unlike the previous BJP government, we have taken firm action. Our government is committed to safeguarding our youth and will not rest until Himachal is free from the clutches of drugs.”
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
