Meghalaya Chief Minister Chairs Meeting to Outline Drug Eradication Strategy
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Shillong, Dec 9 (NationPress) The Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) of Meghalaya convened a meeting on Monday, presided over by Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, to formulate a comprehensive strategy for drug eradication within the state.
In-depth discussions revolved around the “Three-Pronged Approach” involving law enforcement efforts by the police department, harm reduction initiatives spearheaded by the Health department, and Social Security measures implemented by the Social Welfare department.
The meeting also reviewed the modifications made to the structure, functions, and processes of the ANTF, and deliberated on the proposed strategies along with the assistance needed from various sectors, including Law, Health, Education, and Social Welfare.
Chief Minister Conrad Sangma emphasized the necessity for a holistic approach, suggesting that the ANTF collaborate with each relevant department to enact the strategy in a phased manner, structuring the action plan into short-term, medium-term, and long-term objectives.
He stated, “The scope of the ANTF is immense and vast, so it would be practical and sensible to first leverage on the low hanging fruits and implement the strategy as pilot projects in certain hotbeds of drug menace in the state,” highlighting the importance of initial steps.
Furthermore, he noted that the strategy must embrace a balance of zero tolerance for drug supply and distribution while acknowledging the humanitarian aspects concerning users, emphasizing the vital roles of the Health and Social Welfare departments in user rehabilitation and societal reintegration.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the critical function of the Education department in raising awareness and educating the public against drug abuse.
The meeting covered discussions on testing, detoxification, and rehabilitation centers, as well as strategies to disrupt the drug supply chain within the state.
Present at the meeting were Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, Minister of Health & Family Welfare M. Ampareen Lyngdoh, Minister of Education Rakkam Sangma, Minister of Social Welfare Paul Lyngdoh, and DG of Meghalaya Idashisha Nongrang, along with senior government officials.
