The regional office of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has requested a detailed report from the Himachal Pradesh government to study its 'anti-chitta' model. The aim is to explore its implementation in other states for more effective action against the drug menace.
Himachal's Comprehensive Strategy
The state government has formulated a comprehensive strategy to tackle the growing menace of 'chitta' (heroin). Under this initiative, Himachal Pradesh became the first state in the country to identify drug addicts and traffickers at the panchayat level. It classified affected areas into red, yellow, and green zones based on the intensity of drug-related cases, as per a state government statement.
Survey Findings and Enforcement Actions
A statewide survey found 234 panchayats severely affected by drug abuse and trafficking, placing them in the red zone category. Following these findings, the government intensified police surveillance and enforcement in these areas, leading to significant action against traffickers. The government has invoked the PIT-NDPS Act against 174 offenders, making Himachal one of the leading states in taking stringent legal action against drug mafias.
Authorities have also confiscated illegal properties worth Rs 51 crore linked to drug traffickers. More than 700 cases have been investigated, while around 300 were found suitable for financial investigation and property seizure proceedings.
Rehabilitation and Awareness Initiatives
Along with strict enforcement, the state has focused on rehabilitation and awareness. Modern rehabilitation centres are being developed in collaboration with NITI Aayog, AIIMS Delhi, and PGIMER Chandigarh at Kotla Barog in Sirmaur district. Rehabilitation centres are also set to be established soon at Mashobra in Shimla district and Dr Rajender Prasad Government Medical College, Tanda, in Kangra district.
