DC Samba chairs NCORD meeting

• Call for collective action to eliminate drug menace

SAMBA: Deputy Commissioner Samba Ayushi Sudan today chaired the District level NCORD Committee meeting to review progress across departments in the execution of anti-narcotic and drug control measures. Senior officials including Zonal Director NCB Jammu, ASP Samba and departmental heads attended the meeting held at the DC Office.

Highlighting the district’s zero-tolerance policy, the DC noted that 48 NDPS cases have been registered this year, signaling firm enforcement action. A dedicated drug helpline has been activated by District Police to encourage public reporting and support. In a key transparency move, the district has achieved 100% implementation of computerized billing in chemist shops, with routine inspections underway to curb substance abuse.

Reviewing rehabilitation measures, the meeting was informed that 41 individuals have received professional de-addiction counseling between April and September this year. The DC directed line listing of students in Schools and Colleges to identify vulnerable groups and mandated screening in the transport sector.

Youth engagement emerged as a strategic focus. The DC reviewed a district-wide IEC calendar and sports schedule, stressing reactivation of youth clubs to offer constructive outlets. Media involvement is being leveraged to amplify anti-drug messaging.

Plans are underway to strengthen Border Checkpoints, expand Addiction Treatment Centres and deploy field counselors. Departments have been tasked with aligning employment schemes to support at-risk youth and deter drug involvement.

The Deputy Commissioner reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to a drug-free Samba, urging civil society, parents, educators and community leaders to collaborate in this critical mission. The NCORD Committee will continue to monitor and guide multi-pronged interventions, ensuring sustained momentum against the drug threat.