On the occasion of International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, CM Sukhu announced a series of significant steps to strengthen the fight against drug abuse in Himachal Pradesh. Chief among them is the introduction of a dedicated chapter on drug abuse awareness in the school curriculum, aimed at educating youth early and building long-term resistance against substance misuse.
Presiding over a state-level function, the Chief Minister reaffirmed the government’s zero-tolerance policy towards drug use and trafficking, urging every section of society to participate actively in making Himachal a drug-free state. “There is no place for drugs in Devbhoomi,” he asserted, adding that the government will take strict action against government employees found involved in any form of drug trafficking.
The CM highlighted several new initiatives:
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Establishment of a 100-bedded De-addiction Centre at Kotla Barog, Sirmaur, with an outlay of ₹5.34 crore.
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Plan for de-addiction centres in every district, to support recovery and reintegration.
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Continued focus on employment and skill development programs for individuals recovering from addiction.
He also noted the swift implementation of the PIT-NDPS Act by the current government, a move that the previous administration failed to execute during its five-year tenure.
Sukhu administered the Anti-Drug Pledge and honoured individuals and organizations for their outstanding contributions to drug de-addiction efforts. Honourees included doctors, educators, police officials, social organizations, and community leaders from across the state.
Health Minister Dr. (Col.) Dhani Ram Shandil called for a mass movement akin to the freedom struggle, emphasizing that community vigilance, early home discipline, and open dialogue between parents, teachers, and children are key to long-term success in the anti-drug campaign.
Special performances by specially-abled children from Dhalli orphanage and students from Government Degree College, Kotshera, added a creative touch to the event, using drama to raise awareness about the ill effects of drug use.
Among the dignitaries present were MLA Sanjay Awasthy, Political Advisor Sunil Sharma, Mayor Surender Chauhan, top government officials, and police representatives.
