East Siang Officials Ramp Up Efforts Against Drugs and Illegal Gambling

Itanagar: Arunachal Pradesh’s East Siang district held its 21st monthly NCORD meeting to evaluate ongoing efforts to combat drug abuse, alcoholism, and gambling. Deputy Commissioner Sonalika Jiwani led the session, joined by Superintendent of Police Pankaj Lamba and various departmental stakeholders, to assess recent enforcement and rehabilitation progress.

Joint teams from the police, administration, and the Department of Tax and Excise have conducted inspection drives across the district. These operations resulted in the seizure of illicit liquor and the destruction of wild cannabis crops in Pasighat. Officials also addressed the strict enforcement of the COTPA Act, ordering the Education Department to pinpoint and shut down tobacco vendors operating illegally within 500 metres of local schools.

The district is currently managing seven de-addiction centres focused on long-term recovery. To support these individuals, the Department of Industry is providing vocational training in fields like computer skills, mushroom cultivation, and electrical work. Deputy Commissioner Jiwani highlighted the importance of engaging local youth through sports, exposure tours, and educational initiatives to prevent substance dependency.

Superintendent Lamba plans to use media platforms to share recovery success stories, aiming to reduce stigma and encourage more residents to utilize available support services. Moving forward, the district administration has tasked relevant departments with surveying areas prone to gambling and alcohol abuse while ensuring bars adhere strictly to mandated operating hours.