Himachal Pradesh’s “Anti-Chitta Model” has emerged as a successful strategy in combating drug abuse and trafficking, attracting attention at the national level. The regional office of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has sought a detailed report from the state government to study the model for possible implementation in other states.
Under the leadership of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the state introduced a comprehensive anti-drug strategy focused on both enforcement and rehabilitation. In a first-of-its-kind initiative, drug abuse and trafficking patterns were mapped at the Panchayat level, with areas categorized into Red, Yellow and Green zones based on the severity of chitta-related cases.
The survey identified 234 Panchayats as Red Zones, leading to intensified police surveillance and targeted action in these regions. The government has detained 174 offenders under the PIT-NDPS Act and confiscated illegal properties worth nearly Rs. 51 crore linked to drug traffickers. Over 700 drug-related cases have been investigated, while around 300 cases qualified for financial investigation and property seizure proceedings.
Alongside strict enforcement, the government has prioritized rehabilitation and awareness. In collaboration with NITI Aayog, AIIMS Delhi, and PGIMER Chandigarh, a modern rehabilitation centre is being established at Kotla Barog in Sirmaur district, with additional centres planned in Shimla and Kangra districts.
Awareness initiatives including Drug-Free Campus campaigns, Anti-Drug Pledges, and Anti-Drug Cells in schools and colleges are also being implemented to prevent substance abuse among youth. The government plans to launch the second phase of the Anti-Chitta campaign after the Panchayat elections to further strengthen efforts against drug trafficking across the state.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
