New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired the 7th top-level NCORD meeting, where he introduced the National Narcotics Helpline, 'MANAS' (Madak Padarth Nishedh Asuchna Kendra).
MANAS offers a toll-free number (1933), a web portal, a mobile app, and an UMANG app, enabling citizens to connect with the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) 24/7 for advice on de-addiction, rehabilitation, and to report drug trafficking anonymously.
During the event, Shah emphasized the government's goal to make India a leader in all fields by 2047, highlighting the importance of keeping the youth away from drugs.
He spoke about the Modi government's 'Whole of Government Approach' over the past five years, focusing on structural, institutional, and informational reforms to tackle the drug menace.
Shah pointed out the serious threat posed by narco-terrorism and drug money to national security.
He stressed that the aim should not only be to catch drug users but also to dismantle the entire drug network.
He underscored the need for a tough approach to drug supply, a strategic plan for demand reduction, and a compassionate approach to harm reduction.
Shah also highlighted that Gujarat has been effective in probing drug cases from top to bottom and bottom to top, urging other states to adopt similar strategies.
He announced that the government would soon provide cheaper kits for primary testing of narcotics to simplify case filing.
The meeting saw the virtual inauguration of the NCB Zonal Office in Srinagar, focusing on curbing drug trafficking from India's northwestern border.
The newly released NCB Annual Report 2023 outlines recent efforts and successes in combating drug trafficking and abuse.
The MANAS helpline aims to support the Nasha Mukt Bharat campaign, with participation from various stakeholders, including central and state government officials and agencies.
