Himachal Pradesh government to oppose scrapping of MGNREGA
He described the move as an injustice to the poor and said the State Government would firmly oppose it.
The Himachal Pradesh government is set to launch the Anti-Chitta Volunteer Scheme (ACVS) as part of its intensified drive against substance abuse.
Acting on Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu’s Independence Day announcement at Sarkaghat in Mandi district, the Police Headquarters has submitted a detailed proposal for its implementation.
Advertisement
Under the scheme, more than 1,000 volunteers will be engaged across the state to strengthen community participation in the fight against drugs.
Advertisement
They will spread awareness about the harmful effects of ‘chitta’ and other narcotics, report suspicious activities and hotspots through confidential channels, and participate in awareness programmes in schools, colleges and communities.
Volunteers will also assist in rallies, street plays, social media campaigns and help link affected individuals and families with counseling and rehabilitation centres. Registered volunteers will be paid an honorarium for their services.
An official spokesperson said here on Thursday that the government has prioritized the fight against drug abuse over the past two and a half years.
“The scheme will enhance ground-level intelligence, boost police operations, improve rehabilitation linkages and strengthen public-police partnerships—all aimed at achieving the vision of a drug-free Himachal Pradesh,” he added.
For their safety, volunteers will not be involved in field identification. Police will maintain strict confidentiality of their identities and provide protection in sensitive cases.
A two-day training programme will equip them with knowledge of the NDPS Act, police procedures and methods of community engagement.
Chief Minister Sukhu said his government has declared a war against drugs since assuming office.
“Unlike the previous BJP government, we enforced the PIT-NDPS Act, seized drug mafia properties worth over Rs 42 crore, and made drug testing for chitta mandatory in police recruitment. Our government is committed to protecting the youth and has taken concrete steps towards a drug-free Himachal Pradesh,” he added.
Advertisement
