govt-launches-new-portal-to-fight-child-drug-abuse

The government has launched a new portal to combat drug abuse among children. This initiative is aimed at creating a robust monitoring system to prevent the sale of contraband around schools and to raise awareness among students and teachers.

 

Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Nityanand Rai, introduced the "Prahari Portal" as part of the Joint Action Plan designed to involve various stakeholders in addressing the drug menace among youngsters.

 

The portal is intended to create an effective system to monitor and prevent drug sales near schools and to educate students and teachers through Prahari Clubs.

 

In conjunction with the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) and the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), a national review and consultation meeting was organised.

 

This event marked the beginning of the implementation of the Joint Action Plan aimed at preventing drug and substance abuse among children, aligning with the vision of a "Nasha Mukt Bharat" or drug-free India.

 

The Joint Action Plan, titled "A War Against Drugs," aims to shift the focus towards preventing drug abuse among children. It calls for the involvement of all stakeholders, including agencies, duty bearers, officials, media, and parents, to protect children from drugs and substances.

 

Rai praised the Joint Action Plan developed by NCPCR and NCB, highlighting the prime minister's commitment to a drug-free nation. He emphasised the importance of protecting the youth, who make up 59 percent of the population, as they are the future leaders of a developed India.

 

In his address, Rai discussed the government's zero-tolerance policy towards drugs and terrorism. He mentioned the empowerment of the Border Security Force (BSF), Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), and Assam Rifles to file FIRs against those involved in drug trafficking, as well as the comprehensive measures being taken to eradicate the drug trade.

 

He also highlighted the significant role of the National Narcotics Coordination (NCORD), initiated in 2019, in combating drugs. Thirty District Magistrates were honoured for their exemplary implementation of the Joint Action Plan.

 

Rai encouraged them to share their successful models and experiences with other districts to ensure effective nationwide action against drugs. He assured the ministry's full support for NCPCR's efforts in protecting children from drugs.

 

NCPCR Chairperson Priyank Kanungo reiterated the commitment to safeguarding the youth. He emphasised that protecting children from drugs is crucial to realising the Prime Minister's vision of a developed India. Kanungo acknowledged the collaborative effort in developing the Joint Action Plan, which consolidates existing policies and effective laws to contribute to the mission for a Drug-Free India.

 

Sachin Jain, Deputy Director of NCB, discussed the agency's role and efforts in protecting children from drugs. He stressed the need for joint efforts and the significance of Prahari Clubs as an effective body for safeguarding children from drug abuse.

 

Representatives from 33 states and Union territories also shared the steps taken under the Joint Action Plan and their efforts to protect children from drugs.

 

This comprehensive approach aims to ensure that children across the nation are protected from the dangers of drug abuse, aligning with the broader goal of a drug-free India.