SHILLONG: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Monday reiterated Meghalaya's "zero tolerance" approach to drug distribution and supply, while addressing a meeting of the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF). The meeting was called to formulate a comprehensive road map outlining the strategy for combating this drug menace in the state.
Underlining the imperative of a balanced approach to the problem, Sangma said, "While the enforcing agencies must have a zero-tolerance attitude towards the entire drug supply chain, one must also look at this from the humane aspect by focusing on user rehabilitation, health services, and societal integration. "Departments like health and social welfare will play a critical role in this endeavor."
The three-point strategy, which the conference discussed and was attended by key state officials such as Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, Health Minister M Ampareen Lyngdoh, Education Minister Rakkam Sangma, and Social Welfare Minister Paul Lyngdoh, focuses on stringent enforcement of law by the police, health initiatives through harm reduction measures, and social security led by the social welfare department.
Reforms in the structure and functions of ANTF were discussed, and a strategy for implementation was segmented into short, medium, and long-term plans. Sangma suggested that these strategies be piloted in hotspots identified for greater effectiveness.
He also brought attention to the education department's role in sensitizing youth and emphasized the requirement for effective testing, detoxification, and rehabilitation facilities to aid users in recovery.
Coordination across the departments of social welfare, health, education, and law enforcement is necessary to break the supply chain, which is still a top priority. Sangma urged ANTF to work closely with each department to ensure that the initiatives are implemented in a progressive and realistic manner.
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