Sri Vijaya Puram, June 24: Growing concerns over drug abuse and illicit trafficking in South Andaman prompted district authorities and enforcement agencies to strengthen their coordinated response during a meeting of the Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD) Committee held as part of the observance of Anti-Drug Awareness Week.
The meeting was convened on June 23 under the chairmanship of Pallavi Sarkar, IAS, District Magistrate of South Andaman District. The deliberations focused on enhancing preventive measures, expanding public awareness and reinforcing coordination among stakeholders to address the challenges posed by substance abuse and illegal drug activities in the district.
Participants emphasized the need for a sustained and multi-agency approach to tackle the issue, highlighting that effective prevention requires active involvement from government departments, enforcement agencies and the wider community. The meeting reviewed strategies aimed at strengthening awareness initiatives and improving public engagement, particularly among young people and other vulnerable groups.
Officials discussed the importance of educating communities about the social, health and economic consequences associated with drug abuse. Stakeholders explored measures to broaden the reach of awareness campaigns and encourage greater community participation in efforts to prevent substance abuse and support a drug-free society.
The District Magistrate directed all concerned agencies and stakeholders to further strengthen inter-departmental coordination and collaborative partnerships. She called for a unified approach in addressing the drug menace and stressed the need for timely information sharing and coordinated action among agencies involved in prevention, enforcement and outreach activities.
Discussions also focused on improving the effectiveness of awareness programmes and reinforcing enforcement mechanisms to ensure a comprehensive response against illicit drug trafficking and related offences. Participants underlined the importance of sustained vigilance and collective action to address emerging challenges associated with narcotic substances.
The meeting concluded with stakeholders reaffirming their commitment to intensify awareness, prevention and enforcement measures through continued coordination and joint efforts. The objective, officials noted, is to strengthen the district’s response against drug abuse and illegal trafficking while promoting safer communities.
As part of the public outreach initiative, residents have been urged to actively support anti-drug efforts by sharing information related to drug trafficking and other illicit activities with authorities. Citizens can report such information through the MANAS Helpline on 1933 or by contacting the Police through 112 and 03192-236641.
Officials assured that the identity of informants will be kept strictly confidential. The administration reiterated that public participation remains a crucial component in strengthening the fight against drug abuse and illegal trafficking across South Andaman.
