Ranchi: Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Monday launched a state-wide drive against drug abuse, flagging off awareness vehicles from the Project Building to spread awareness across Jharkhand.
Around 400 artists participated in the event. Around 200 social media influencers and non-governmental organizations have also been roped in to spread awareness. Last year, around 15,000 events were held in this regard, while the target for this year is similar.
Officials said nearly 80 vehicles will travel across different parts of the state over the next 12 days, disseminating messages against illegal drug production, trafficking, and addiction through video displays, plays, slogans, and public outreach activities.
Collective Effort Required
Emphasizing the importance of public participation, Soren said the goal of a drug-free Jharkhand can only be achieved through a collective effort. “Drug abuse not only makes the addict sick but also puts his or her family and society in difficulty. Society must come forward to prevent the menace,” he said.
He added that saving youth from addiction remains a top government priority, warning that substance abuse poses a serious challenge to the progress of families, society, and the state. “An extensive campaign has been initiated to create awareness. I appeal to people to stay away from drugs,” the CM said.
Rewards for Information
The campaign will also publicize a recent cabinet decision to offer monetary rewards to citizens and government employees who provide information leading to drug seizures.
Officials further said that around 1,000 personnel from various state departments were trained on June 5 and June 8 to implement the campaign on a large scale.
Minister Irfan Ansari, Chief Secretary Avinash Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary Vandana Dadel, DGP Tadasha Mishra, and other senior officials were present.
