Gangtok, July 25 (IPR):
In a crucial step toward making Sikkim drug-free, the 5th State-Level Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD) Meeting was held at the Tashiling Secretariat, Gangtok. Chaired by Chief Secretary Mr. R. Telang, the meeting brought together top officials and department heads to review and enhance the State’s strategy against drug abuse and trafficking.
As a school-level NCORD member, I personally see the value of such coordinated efforts, especially when they directly impact young students — the most vulnerable group in our fight against drugs.
The meeting began with Mr. M Bharani Kumar, Secretary of the Home Department, presenting detailed updates on previous action points. His presentation included inputs from key stakeholders like the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Health Department, Education (Samagra Shiksha), Social Welfare, Law & Parliamentary Affairs, and district-level authorities.
Key issues discussed during NCORD:
Key issues were discussed, including:
- Hotspot survey to map drug usage trends in Sikkim.
- Gap analysis of existing drug rehabilitation and de-addiction centres.
- Proposal to establish Special NDPS Courts for quicker disposal of drug-related cases.
- Constitution of a PIT Advisory Board to strengthen preventive mechanisms.
- Enhancing Drug Regulatory Systems through improved manpower and mobility, with collaboration from neighbouring West Bengal.
The Chief Secretary displayed in-depth understanding of inter-departmental challenges, suggesting robust data collection, court monitoring, and strategic fund utilisation to ensure measurable progress.
Building Strong Systems Backed by Policy and Enforcement
As an NCORD body, the meeting reaffirmed the state’s authoritative stance against the drug menace. Particularly impactful was the introduction of Mission SPANDAN—a spiritual initiative to address drug abuse through moral and emotional support systems. The Chief Secretary directed the Social Welfare Department to actively involve spiritual groups for outreach actively.
Additionally, the DIGP Gangtok Range & CID, Mr. Tenzing Loden Lepcha, presented the ‘Utthan Project’, a comprehensive police-led initiative focusing on:
- Supply and demand reduction
- Harm reduction
- Watertight investigation
- Community engagement
These multi-agency approaches demonstrate the seriousness with which the State is tackling the issue.
One of the most reassuring aspects of the meeting was the Chief Secretary’s focus on protecting school children from the threat of drugs and tobacco. He urged the Education Department and District Collectors to ensure:
- Strict control over tobacco sales near schools.
- School vigilance against suspicious individuals.
- Recognition of schools maintaining a “drug-free” status.
As a school-level NCORD member, this directive validates the work we do at the grassroots level. Our role in prevention, awareness drives, and student counselling now has stronger backing and clearer direction.
The meeting witnessed active participation from Heads of Departments, the District Collector of Namchi, and key representatives from central agencies such as the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Intelligence Bureau (IB), Sikkim State AIDS Control Society (SACS), Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), and the Postal Department. Additionally, officers from all district administrative centres across the state attended the meeting virtually, reflecting a united front in Sikkim’s fight against drug abuse.
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Conclusion:
The Chief Secretary’s vision is clear—Sikkim must unite to eliminate drug abuse through preventive education, stronger enforcement, spiritual guidance, and community participation. For us at the school level, this meeting is a reminder that our small efforts are part of a larger, determined movement. With consistent vigilance and awareness, we can truly build a drug-free Sikkim.